A gripping new docuseries on Netflix titled American Murder: Gabby Petito delves into the unsettling dynamics between Gabby Petito and Brian Laundrie, illustrating the chilling reality of their relationship. One of the most startling revelations comes from Gabby's ex-boyfriend, Jackson, who shares how Gabby expressed her desire to leave Brian, but was consumed by fear about how he'd react.
Inside the Turbulent Relationship
The series doesn't just rely on personal anecdotes; it features interviews with Petito's family and friends, creating a broader picture of what she endured. Central to the narrative are text messages and journal entries, provided by Gabby's family, that paint a picture of manipulation and emotional abuse. Laundrie's behavior was alarmingly controlling, involving restrictions on Gabby's job choices and attempts to cut her off from her social circle.
In one distressing incident reported in Moab, Utah, on August 12, 2021, Gabby was seen as the aggressor in a domestic dispute. However, witness accounts suggested a different story, revealing Laundrie's erratic actions. This incident amplified the public's concern about their relationship, showing cracks that many might have overlooked.
The Final Days
Adding another layer to their story, the series presents never-before-seen text communications between the couple and Laundrie's mother, Roberta. Gabby reached out to Jackson when she felt suffocated, planning but fearing to leave her fiancé. The series suggests that these subtle signs of turmoil often go unrecognized until it's too late.
Laundrie's suicide note, in which he admitted to killing Gabby after a supposed stream injury, only deepens the mystery. Gabby's family strongly challenges this narrative. The docuseries doesn't just recount events; it aims to highlight the often hidden indicators of intimate partner abuse, hoping to prevent future tragedies.
Meanwhile, Gabby’s parents have been taking legal and advocacy steps. They settled a lawsuit with the Laundrie family and are actively working through the Gabby Petito Foundation to support victims of domestic violence. Although their wrongful death lawsuit against the Moab police was dismissed in November 2024, they continue to seek justice for Gabby.
The FBI's final report adds another piece to the puzzle, with an unnamed witness corroborating the uncomfortable encounter in Moab. This docuseries does more than tell a story; it strikes a chord, reminding viewers of the complexities and often unseen signs of domestic abuse.