In 2021, Gabby Petito and Brian Laundrie embarked on a cross-country road trip in their 2012 white Ford Transit Connect van, sharing picturesque moments at iconic locations like Zion National Park and Utah’s Mystic Hot Springs. However, the journey took a tragic turn when Laundrie returned to his Florida home alone on September 1, and Petito’s body was later discovered near Grand Teton National Park on September 19, with authorities ruling her death a homicide.
Netflix’s new docuseries, “American Murder: Gabby Petito,” now streaming, delves into the events leading up to this tragedy, seeking to understand the dynamics of their relationship. Laundrie ultimately died by suicide, taking critical questions about their story with him.
The series unfolds Petito’s life, beginning with touching moments from her childhood, including a poignant recollection from her mother, Nichole Schmidt, who remembers the loving farewell hug she received from Gabby before the trip. Nonetheless, friends describe a troubling side of Laundrie, with one friend revealing he attempted to control Petito throughout their relationship, even going so far as to take her ID to prevent her from going out with friends.
Text messages reveal Petito’s struggles, as she expressed distress over Laundrie’s controlling behavior, saying, “Don’t try to control me because it only makes me mad.” This highlights a deeper psychological struggle where Petito felt responsible for Laundrie’s emotional state.
Incidents of domestic disturbance came to light when a 911 call was made on August 12, 2021, following reports of a heated argument between the couple. Police intervened, but after interviewing both parties, they decided to separate them for the night rather than pressing charges.
Further insight appears through Petito’s former boyfriend who indicated that a call on August 22 seemed to signal her distress and desire to leave Laundrie, claiming it sounded like a “cry for help.” Their last known interaction captured on surveillance was at a Whole Foods in Wyoming on August 27, after which Petito was unaccounted for.
Laundrie’s behavior became increasingly suspicious as he returned to Florida using Petito’s debit card and made electronic payments that raised concerns. After Petito’s body was found, evidence pointed to strangulation as the cause of death, compelling an investigation into Laundrie’s actions.
The docuseries also references controversial remarks from Laundrie’s mother, which have since been scrutinized. Despite not facing criminal charges, the Laundrie family settled a civil suit with Petito’s parents, indicating a complex web of emotional turmoil stemming from this tragedy.
Reflecting on the documentary raises awareness about domestic abuse and the often unseen signs within relationships. The narrative of Gabby Petito serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance, support, and open communication in relationships, encouraging viewers to reflect on the need for empathy and care in troubled situations.
This docuseries not only seeks to portray the tragic events but also aims to foster discussions about mental health and the critical need for identifying and addressing coercive relationships. Gabby’s story, though heart-wrenching, emphasizes hope for broader understanding and prevention of domestic violence.
In summary, the story of Gabby Petito is both a tragic loss and a vital lesson on the complexities of relationships, emotional well-being, and the urgency of societal support against domestic violence.