Gabby Petito Murder Case Nears 1-Year Anniversary — But YouTuber's Family Remains in 'Deep Pain'
Gabby Petito's family is still in deep pain after Brian Laundrie killed her nearly a year ago.
Petito's mother, Nicole Schmidt, opened up about the family's sorrow during her appearance on the August 4 episode of the "TODAY" show. The grieving mother heartbreakingly recalled the tragedy in pursuit of spreading domestic violence awareness.
Schmidt also announced that she would donate $100,000 from the Gabby Petitio Foundation to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, saying that their story begins and they do not want to see it happen to other people.
When she talked about Laundrie's crimes, the mother divulged that the family is yet to move forward following the shocking and heartbreaking event.
"That was his character, even in his last moments, he wanted to make sure he looked like the good guy. Right?? That's ridiculous. We know how she died," Schmidt continued. "We're trying. We're trying to do good for Gabby and for everybody else."
Still, the matriarch chose to share how Petito's life and story touched other people. With the tragedy's "higher purpose," Schmidt sees it as something that keeps her going.
Brian Laundrie Wanted To Paint Himself a Victim?
In similar news, the chilling details of Laundrie's letter were unveiled. Laundrie said that murdering Petito was "mercy killing" as she sustained an injury while they were hiking.
"I've seen and heard many confessions, including dying confessions, they are always guaranteed to be filled with half-truths and blame shifts. Laundrie's is no exception," he said.
Jensen called the late fugitive's statement a "farcical tale" since he seemingly attempted to clear his name and paint himself as a hero instead of a "villain."
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The private investigator alleged that Laundrie's original plan was to leave Petito's body along Spread Creek, hoping that animals would destroy the evidence. He said that he believes he wanted everyone to believe he was being merciful and claimed Petito asked him to kill her.
Meanwhile, NewsNationNow's senior national correspondent Brian Entin wrote on Twitter that Laundrie should've called someone or 911 to ask for help.
He revealed that he went to the spot where Petito was killed, and it was near the creek Laundrie mentioned in his letter. Per Entin, he had a cell service there, so Laundrie should have made a call.
Laundrie also failed to drive her instead to the nearest hospital.
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