Gabby Petito’s Parents Cast Shade on Brian Laundrie’s Family in New Docuseries
Gabby Petito’s parents, Joseph Petito and Nichole Schmidt, have publicly expressed their outrage and skepticism toward the Laundrie family in a new Netflix docuseries titled American Murder: Gabby Petito. The series delves into the tragic murder of 22-year-old Gabby Petito, who was killed by her fiancé, Brian Laundrie, during a road trip in Wyoming. The docuseries sheds light on the timeline of events and raises questions about the Laundrie family’s knowledge of the crime. Joseph Petito directly criticized the Laundries for hiring a prominent attorney, Tom Fleener, just three days after Brian Laundrie called his parents to say Gabby was "gone." Joseph Petito questioned the logic behind the Laundries spending $25,000 on legal fees while claiming ignorance of their son’s actions. "You’re going to throw $25,000 of your hard-earned cash out on a lawyer from f—ing Wyoming, and you’re telling me you didn’t ask where she was?" he said in the documentary, calling the situation "bulls—."
The Timing of Gabby Petito’s Murder and the Laundrie Family’s Actions
The docuseries highlights the timeline of events leading up to Gabby Petito’s disappearance and murder. On August 29, 2021, Brian Laundrie called his parents in a frantic state, telling them Gabby was "gone." Just three days later, on September 2, the Laundrie family attorney, Steve Bertolino, entered into a fee agreement with Fleener’s law firm in Wyoming, reportedly paying $25,000. This payment occurred less than a week after Gabby was last seen alive in Jackson, Wyoming, on August 27. Petito’s stepfather, Jim Schmidt, also expressed his suspicions, stating, "I don’t think the amount of money they paid their attorney would be for anything less than to represent somebody for murder." These actions have fueled speculation that the Laundrie family may have had knowledge of Brian’s involvement in Gabby’s disappearance and death.
The Laundrie Family’s Legal Maneuverings and Denials
The Laundrie family’s hiring of attorney Tom Fleener, a former JAG lawyer with a high-profile client list, has raised eyebrows. Fleener previously represented Ali al Bahlul, a former bodyguard to Osama bin Laden, and has declined to comment on his involvement in the Laundrie case. Meanwhile, Steve Bertolino, the Laundrie family’s attorney, has maintained that the $25,000 payment was for his services in retaining Fleener’s firm. Bertolino has not collected any payment for his own legal role in the case, which included representing the Laundries in a now-settled lawsuit brought by Gabby Petito’s parents. Despite these legal maneuvers, both Christopher and Roberta Laundrie have denied knowledge of Gabby’s murder. Brian Laundrie himself ultimately took his own life, leaving behind a suicide note confession.
Cassie Laundrie’s Estrangement and Allegations
Brian Laundrie’s sister, Cassie Laundrie, has also become a focal point in the docuseries. Cassie was expected to testify in the civil case but her interview was canceled after her attorney claimed she had no relevant information. Cassie has since denied knowledge of her parents’ conversations with Brian and has alleged that a police detective mischaracterized their discussions in bodycam footage. Her estrangement from the family has added another layer of complexity to the case, with many questioning her level of involvement or awareness of her brother’s actions. Cassie’s statements have only deepened the mystery surrounding the Laundrie family’s potential complicity.
Gabby Petito’s Parents Advocate for Justice and Domestic Violence Awareness
Since Gabby’s murder, her parents have become vocal advocates for missing persons and domestic violence victims. They have used their platform to raise awareness and push for justice for their daughter. The docuseries not only revisits the timeline of Gabby’s disappearance and murder but also highlights the systemic issues that contribute to domestic violence and the failure of some families to intervene. Joseph Petito and Nichole Schmidt’s emotional interviews in the series underscore their grief and frustration, as well as their determination to ensure that Gabby’s story is not forgotten. Their advocacy has resonated with many, sparking a national conversation about the need for greater support for victims of domestic violence.
The Legacy of Gabby Petito and the Ongoing Quest for Answers
American Murder: Gabby Petito serves as a chilling reminder of the tragic events that unfolded in Wyoming and the questions that still linger about the Laundrie family’s involvement. The docuseries provides a detailed account of the timeline, legal battles, and emotional toll on Gabby’s loved ones. While Brian Laundrie’s confession and suicide have brought some closure, the allegations against his family continue to cast a shadow over the case. For Gabby’s parents, their fight for justice is far from over, and their voices continue to echo the desperate hope that no other family will endure the same pain. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233 (SAFE) for support.
