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Where Is Brian Laundrie? ‘The More He Runs, The More He Hides, The Less He Can Say It Was A Mistake,’ Says Gabby Petito Family Attorney
Following a large-scale search that involved police, the FBI, volunteers, and tips from the general public, 22-year-old “van life” blogger Gabby Petito’s body was discovered on September 19 in her last known location, Wyoming’s Bridger-Teton National Forest. Gabby had been camping in the wilderness area with her former fiancé, Brian Laundrie, in late August. Laundrie, 23, has been named a person of interest in Gabby’s death, which has been ruled a homicide. The experienced outdoorsman is currently the subject of a vast manhunt by local and Federal law enforcement. “The more he runs, the more he hides, the less he can say it was a mistake or that he had nothing to do with it,” says attorney Richard Stafford, who represents Gabby’s family. Gabby’s parents and stepparents recently started the Gabby Petito Foundation. They say their goal is to bring awareness to the dual causes of domestic violence and missing persons. “They may feel helpless – hopeless – but they’re not alone,” says Gabby’s stepfather, Jim Schmidt. Dr. Phil and his wife, Robin McGraw, say they are donating $25,000 to the organization. Gabby’s family is also encouraging others who may have a missing loved one to use the hashtag #gabbypetito on social media to boost their own search efforts. Gabby’s father, Joe Petito, says, “There is no reason not to. We’re not getting her back, but maybe you can get someone back.” The algorithm booster was reportedly used more than a billion times during the search for Gabby. The conclusion of this two-part Dr. Phil exclusive, “Gabby’s Parents Come Together,” airs Wednesday. Check your local listing for airtimes. Visit https://gabbypetitofoundation.org to learn more about the Gabby Petito Foundation or to make a donation. WATCH: Family Of Gabby Petito Say They’re Hopeful Her Foundation Will Help Others TELL DR. PHIL YOUR STORY: Have a story in the news?