David Gardiner jail intake photo
The husband and son accused of killing a Sequatchie County woman have pleaded not guilty.
David Gardiner and his stepson, Gabriel Vilchez, appeared in court on Thursday, denying charges in the death of Silvia Vilchez.
Investigators say her burned body was located Monday, October 27, 2025, in the Lewis Chapel community, where burned remains were later found.
Gabriel Vilchez jail intake photo
Gabriel Vilchez reportedly confessed on camera and implicated his stepfather, though Gardiner’s attorney argues the case against him is circumstantial. Both men return to court in April.
