In September 2021 the entire world was introduced to Gabby Petito, a 22-year-old van life vlogger who tragically had her life torn away from her due to domestic violence. Her name stands as a beacon for those who advocate against domestic violence in relationships. With extensive news coverage, Netflix documentaries, podcasts, etc, it is hard to find someone who has not heard about the Gabby Petitio case.
Petito and her fiancé Brian Laundrie set off on a months-long cross-country road trip in July 2021. Petito had started a YouTube channel to capture their experiences, becoming a “van life vlogger.” The couple also documented their adventures through Instagram and kept in touch with their families.
Toward the end of August, Petito’s family became slightly concerned after not hearing from Gabby for a few days. She usually kept in close contact with her family and the sudden despondence in her communication made the Petitos grow with worry.
Petito was reported missing on Sep. 11, 2021 after Laundrie returned home without her. Immediately, Laundrie became a “person of interest” to police officers as he was the last one to physically see and have contact with Petito. The Laundrie family lawyered up, and no comments from Brian himself were ever released to the public. On Sep. 17, the Laundrie family summoned police to their home and reported their son missing a few days earlier on Sep. 14.
By this point, the story was being covered by national news channels and sites, and everyone knew of Gabby Petitio and Brian Laundrie. In the midst of all of the searches and interviews, body cam footage from police in Moab, Utah surfaced.
The video was of officers responding to a domestic violence call reporting Laundrie for hitting and screaming at Petito. In the footage, she is visibly distraught and is taking the blame for the situation, calling herself the main aggressor. Laundrie is seen laughing and joking with the officers. The resurgence of the body cam footage fueled the public’s accusations that Laundrie had a major role in the disappearance of Petito.
On Sep. 19, remains believed to be Petito’s were found in a national forest in Wyoming. On Sep. 21, the medical examiner confirmed the remains were, in fact, Gabby Petitio, and the cause of death was homicide. A month later, remains believed to be Brain Laundrie were found, and the death was ruled a suicide.
At the site of his remains, the FBI recovered a notebook that had a written confession from Laundrie. One of the pages reads in part, quote: “I ended her life. I thought it was merciful, that it is what she wanted, but I see now all the mistakes I made.”
Four years after this case was broadcast to the world in real time, the story continues to make headlines and start conversations about domestic abuse in relationships. Gabby’s family has started a foundation in Gabby’s name that offers resources and helps others escape the dangers of intimate partner violence.
The foundation offers information on recognizing warning signs of escalating abuse, such as increased physical violence, access to weapons, strangulation, extreme jealousy and suicidal ideation. They emphasize the importance of creating a personalized safety plan, which includes identifying safe locations to flee to if needed, using safe electronic devices that prevent monitoring and gathering important documents. These resources provide confidence and empowerment to those in dangerous situations seeking to get out.
The foundation also advocates for stronger domestic violence laws and policies. In Florida, the “Gabby Petito Act” was enacted, requiring law enforcement to ask specific questions when responding to domestic violence calls, such as inquiries about threats and access to firearms.
In February 2025, Netflix released a three-part documentary series titled “American Murder: Gabby Petito.” The series talks about the events leading up to Gabby’s tragic death, featuring previously unreleased text messages, journal entries and social media footage, providing an intimate look into Gabby’s life and her relationship with Brian Laundrie. The documentary also featured conversations with Gabby’s family and friends who offered personal insights into her experiences and the dynamics of her relationship.
The series sheds light on systemic issues, such as the challenges in recognizing and addressing domestic violence, and critiques aspects of the judicial system that may have failed to protect Gabby.
Gabby’s stepmom Tara said, “Gabby touched so many people. She touched the world, and by getting her story out there to more viewers, maybe it’ll save one more life. We’ve already received so many messages saying, ‘Because of Gabby’s story, I got out of that relationship.’ That’s why we started the foundation as well, to help others and get resources in their hands. That is so important because Gabby was not able to get those tools.”
Gabby’s story serves as a reminder to cherish every moment, stand against violence and seek justice for those whose voices can no longer be heard.
If you or someone you know is facing the dangers of domestic violence, there are resources for you. You are not alone.
National Domestic Abuse Hotline: 1(800)-799-7233
National Domestic Abuse Website
https://gabbypetitofoundation.org/
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