A Pennsylvania pizza shop owner pleaded guilty Monday to murdering his business partner.
Anna Maria Tromello, 50, of Hilltown Township, pleaded guilty to third-degree murder in connection with the death of Giovanni Gallina. The two owned Pina's Pizzeria in Chalfont and were common-law partners until her death in 2022.
Police said Tromero previously admitted to investigators that he shot Gallina to death on March 16, 2022, and then stored her body in his bedroom, wrapped in a tarp and a comforter. .
Witnesses said Tromero called police and asked for help digging a hole in his yard to “bury one or more items.” The person cooperated with police and was paid to dig holes. While they were digging, Tromero was recorded telling a witness, Galina, that he was “out.”
Galina's body was found inside the house during a subsequent police search.
Tromelo initially claimed self-defense, but Bucks County Assistant District Attorney Christopher Reese said an autopsy showed Gallina was shot in the back of the head. The trial was scheduled to begin Monday before she changed her plea.
She also admitted to investigators that she disposed of evidence, including a bloodstained mattress and bullet casings.
Tromero was originally charged with murder, possession of instruments of crime, abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence.
As part of her guilty plea, she faces 18 to 40 years in state prison. Her sentencing was adjourned for 60 days.
