A murder charge was filed against a man in Houston for allegedly killing his girlfriend and trying to cover up the crime, according to court documents released this week.

According to the files, Jesus Varela, 48, shot Christelrose multiple times Ramirez on December 1st. After the murder, Varela allegedly forced his nephew to help him place the victim's body in four bags, which were then sealed inside a barrel. The barrel was abandoned in the northwest part of the city. Court documents indicate that the defendant allegedly dumped the barrel containing Ramirez's remains near the intersection of Highway 249 and Ella, in northwest Houston. Before the murder charge, Varela had already been charged with tampering with a corpse, assault against a family member, and unlawful imprisonment, according to court records. According to court documents, Jesus Varela is scheduled to return to court next Monday, as authorities continue the criminal proceedings against him.