Brian Laundrie – update: FBI confirms remains found are those of Gabby Petito’s boyfriend

Skeletal human remains found inside the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park were confirmed to be those of Brian Laundrie. The bones were found a day earlier near where a backpack and notebook belonging to Mr Laundrie were in the swamp.

His parents Chris and Roberta Laundrie acknowledged the death in a short and unemotional statement, released through their lawyer Steven Bertolino, asking for privacy.

The Petito-Schmidt family attorney Rick Stafford said they would not make any statements on the identification of Gabby Petito’s former fiance until they’re “emotionally ready”.

The FBI confirmed Mr Laundrie’s remains through dental records, suggesting he had been dead for a significant period of time before his remains were found.

It was revealed earlier that the remains found were bones and that it might take some time to make a positive identification.

“A comparison of dental records confirmed that the human remains found at the T Mabry Carlton Jr Memorial Reserve and Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park are those of Brian Laundrie,” investigators said in a statement.

Read More

Brian Laundrie: FBI confirms remains found in Florida are missing fugitive

Gabby Petito timeline: When was she found and how did she die?

‘It’s hogwash’: Laundrie lawyer denies speculation parents planted Brian belongings

How were remains thought to be Brian Laundrie missed for 33 days but then found by his parents in a few hours?

Key Points

• Brian Laundrie search: Did parents lead FBI to spot where remains and Brian’s notebook were found?

• ‘Strong probability’ remains belong to Brian Laundrie, lawyer suggests

• Partial human remains ‘appear to have been there for a while’

• Portions of Myakkahatchee Creek Park and Carlton Reserve remain closed to public

• Temporary flight restriction in place over Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park

Could Brian Laundrie’s notebook found by FBI explain what happened to him?

02:00 , Justin Vallejo

Following the FBI’s announcement that a notebook of Brian Laundrie’s has been found, criminologists suggest it could contain answers about what happened to his fiancé Gabby Petito.

Speculation is rife over whether one of the notebooks pictured was the one found in the park, and what Mr Laundrie was using it for.

​​Criminologist Casey Jordan told CNN that it could contain a suicide note or letter giving a window into his state of mind while he’s been missing.

The Independent’s Helen Elfer reports.

Could Brian Laundrie’s notebook found by FBI explain what happened to him?

How were Brian Laundrie’s remains missed for 33 days but then found by his parents in a few hours?

01:00 , Justin Vallejo

Wednesday, 20 October, began like every other in the 33 days since Brian Laundrie was reported missing.

Then, around midday, came a flurry of news. Chris and Roberta Laundrie were at the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park and had contacted law enforcement the night before to ask them to accompany them to the site. To seasoned observers of the case, this all seemed a little convenient. The same location where the items were found had been pored over by highly-trained FBI, police and sheriff’s search teams with cadaver dogs just a month earlier.

So how did law enforcement miss this crucial discovery, that the family have all but confirmed belong to Mr Laundrie?

The Independent’s Bevan Hurley looks for answers.

How were Brian Laundrie’s remains found by his parents in a few hours?

Brian Laundrie’s remains confirmed to have been found in Florida park

Thursday 21 October 2021 23:46 , Justin Vallejo

Skeletal remains found in a Florida reserve have been confirmed as Brian Laundrie.

The FBI matched the remains to the missing fugitive’s dental records just over 24 hours after they were discovered in the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park.

Bevan Hurley has the latest.

Brian Laundrie’s remains confirmed to have been found in Florida park

Gabby Petito’s family not ‘emotionally ready’ to talk about Brian Laundrie death

Thursday 21 October 2021 23:16 , Justin Vallejo

Petito-Schmidt family attorney Rick Stafford said in a statement to correspondent Laura Ingle they would not make any statements on the identification of Brian Laundrie’s remains until they’re “emotionally ready”.

"Gabby’s family is not doing interviews or making a statement at this time. They are grieving the loss of their beautiful daughter. Gabby’s family will make a statement at the appropriate time and when they are emotionally ready.”

Police visited parents of Brian Laundrie shortly before announcing the identification of his remains

Thursday 21 October 2021 23:11 , Justin Vallejo

Two detectives entered the home of Chris and Roberta about 5.15 pm local time on Thursday, according to New Nation Now reporter Brian Entin, who has been a constant presence at their house throughout the manhunt.

He said they were there for about two minutes before walking out and leaving without comment.

Reports of the positive identification came about 20 minutes later.

Brian Laundrie’s parents respond to death of sun

Thursday 21 October 2021 23:06 , Justin Vallejo

The parents of Brian Laundrie acknowledged the death of their son in a short and unemotional statement released through their lawyer.

“Chris and Roberta Laundrie have been informed that the remains found yesterday in the reserve are are indeed Brian’s,” attorney Steve Bertolino said in a statement to Fox News. “We have no further comment at this time and we ask you respect the Laundrie family’s privacy at this time.”

FBI confirms remains found in Florida are missing fugitive

Thursday 21 October 2021 22:55 , Justin Vallejo

Investigators confirmed the identification of Mr Laundrie’s skeltal remains the day after they were discovered at the Carlton Reserve near his backpack and items of clothing.

The Independent’s Graig Graziosi is following the story.

FBI confirms Brian Laundrie remains through dental records

Thursday 21 October 2021 22:53 , Justin Vallejo

The key piece of information from the FBI’s confirmation of Brian Laundrie’s remains is the method of identification.

“A comparison of dental records confirmed that the human remains found at the T Mabry Carlton Jr Memorial Reserve and Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park are those of Brian Laundrie.”

It was revealed earlier that the remains found were bones, meaning he had likely been dead long enough that his family was unable to identify his remains by sight.

Read full FBI statement confirming remains of Brian Laundrie

Thursday 21 October 2021 22:50 , Justin Vallejo

BREAKING: FBI confirms remains found belong to Brian Laundrie

Thursday 21 October 2021 22:47 , Justin Vallejo

This is breaking news being reported. More to follow.

North Port police say they are “100 per cent confident” Laundrie parents did not bring items into park

Thursday 21 October 2021 22:00 , Graig Graziosi

The North Port police told News Nation Now reporter Brian Entin on Thursday that they are “100 per cent confident” that Chris and Roberta Laundrie did not bring any items with them into the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park when they accompanied law enforcement on a search of trails inside the park.

Commenters on social media have posited conspiracy theories that the Laundrie parents planted the items in the park. There is no evidence to back those claims.

A dry bag and a notebook belonging to Brian Laundrie were found at the park near the spot where human skeletal remains were found. The FBI is currently analysing the items and the remains.

Human remains found at park reportedly include portion of a skull

Thursday 21 October 2021 21:35 , Graig Graziosi

The human remains discovered at the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park on Wednesday reportedly include portions of a badly decomposed human skull, according to NBC News.

The remains were confirmed human by the Sarasota County medical examiner on Thursday. The skeletal fragments were discovered near items belonging to Brian Laundrie.

Law enforcement has not identified the remains as of Thursday.

Sarasota County medical examiner confirms remains are human, but still no ID

Thursday 21 October 2021 21:17 , Graig Graziosi

The Sarasota County medical examiner confirmed on Thursday that the skeletal remains found in a park near the Carlton Reserve on Wednesday are human.

The medical examiner also noted that more time would be needed before the remains could be identified.

Sarasota County medical examiner confirms remains are human, but still no ID

Thursday 21 October 2021 21:12 , Graig Graziosi

The Sarasota County medical examiner confirmed on Thursday that the skeletal remains found in a park near the Carlton Reserve on Wednesday are human.

The medical examiner also noted that more time would be needed before the remains could be identified.

What would happen if Brian Laundrie is never found?

Thursday 21 October 2021 20:22 , Graig Graziosi

As police work to determine if the skeletal human remains found near the Carlton Reserve are those of Brian Laundrie, many wonder what will happen to the Gabby Petito case in the event her boyfriend has been found dead.

Could a trial happen? What if it’s not Mr Laundrie? What if he is never found?

The Independent’s Graig Graziosi has the answers to those questions below...

What would happen if Brian Laundrie is never found?

Geologist Daniel Robinson has been missing for nearly four months

Thursday 21 October 2021 19:48 , Graig Graziosi

Geologist Daniel Robinson has been missing for nearly four months after disappearing from a worksite in Arizona.

Mr Robinson’s vehicle was found in a ravine, but no evidence of his whereabouts have turned up since.

The geologist’s father has been leading searches in the Arizona desert for months and has been critical of the police response to his son’s disappearance.

Mr Robinson’s father plans to launch another search on 23 November, which will mark four months since his son’s disappearance.

Close-up shot of the dry bag discovered near Carlton Reserve

Thursday 21 October 2021 19:29 , Graig Graziosi

A Fox News reporter shared a close-up image of the dry bag found in a park near the Carlton Reserve on Wednesday near skeletal remains that may belong to Brian Laundrie.

The dry bag is believed to be Mr Laundrie’s, and is often used by campers and kayakers to keep their gear and food dry.

A notebook was also found at the site. All of the items - and the remains - are being analysed by the FBI.

How were remains thought to be Brian Laundrie missed for 33 days but then found by his parents in a few hours?

Thursday 21 October 2021 19:06 , Graig Graziosi

Police searched for Brian Laundrie for more than a month, but his items were found by his parents in just a few hours on Wednesday.

How is that possible?

The Independent’s Bevan Hurley has the answers below...

Human remains found near Carlton Reserve are “bones"

Thursday 21 October 2021 18:40 , Graig Graziosi

Reporters in Florida have revealed that the partial human remains found at the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park on Wednesday are skeletal remains, specifically “bones.”

Investigators are working to determine whether or not the remains are those of Brian Laundrie. The remains were found near a backpack and notebook belonging to Mr Laundrie.

Laundrie family attorney dismisses conspiracy theory that Brian Laundrie’s parents planted evidence as “hogwash"

Thursday 21 October 2021 18:22 , Graig Graziosi

Steven Bertolino, the attorney representing Brian Laundrie and his family, has dismissed social media conspiracy theories claiming the Laundrie parents planted the items found near the Carlton Reserve on Wednesday as “hogwash.”

He made the comments during an interview with CNN’s Chris Cuomo.

The Independent’s Bevan Hurley has more below...

‘It’s hogwash’: Laundrie lawyer denies speculation parents planted Brian belongings

Laundrie family attorney claims he told police Brian Laundrie did not return from hike four days before police began search for him

Thursday 21 October 2021 18:00 , Graig Graziosi

Steven Bertolino, the attorney representing Brian Laundrie and his parents, told reporter Angenette Levy that he told police Mr Laundrie did not return from his hike at the Carlton Reserve on 13 September, a day after he left his home.

Police began searching for Mr Laundrie on 17 September, four days after Mr Bertolino claims he told them the man had not returned.

Medical examiner says remains will not be identified today

Thursday 21 October 2021 17:44 , Graig Graziosi

The Sarasota County medical examiner has reportedly said there will be no positive identification today of the partial human remains found in the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park.

The remains were found alongside a notebook and backpack belonging to Brian Laundrie.

Laundrie attorney calls idea that Brian Laundrie’s parents planted items “hogwash"

Thursday 21 October 2021 16:53 , Graig Graziosi

Steven Bertolino, the attorney representing Brian Laundrie, responded to social media conspiracy theories alleging that Chris and Roberta Laundrie planted the items belonging to their son that were found at the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park on Wednesday.

The attorney called the theories “hogwash” during an interview with CNN’s Chris Cuomo.

“In nice terms, it’s hogwash,” he said. “Chris and Roberta went to this area first and as happenstance was, they stumbled upon these items.”

He noted that the parents were “heartbroken” and that there is a “strong possibility” that the human remains found in the park are Mr Laundrie’s.

Everything we know about Brian Laundrie

Thursday 21 October 2021 16:40 , Graig Graziosi

The FBI is working to identify the partial human remains found at the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park alongside items belonging to Brian Laundrie.

As the world waits to see if the search for Mr Laundrie has come to a conclusion, The Independent’s Helen Elfer has compiled everything we know about the man in her story below...

Everything we know about Brian Laundrie as manhunt continues

Could Brian Laundrie’s notebook found by FBI explain what happened to him?

Thursday 21 October 2021 16:21 , Graig Graziosi

Brian Laundrie’s notebook and backpack were among the items found near a set of partial human remains at the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park on Wednesday.

The remains are currently being examined, with the Laundrie family attorney Steven Bertolino claiming there is a “strong possibility” that they belong to Mr Laundrie.

If Mr Laundrie has died, could his notebook tell us what happened to him - and possibly Gabby Petito - in their final days?

The Independent’s Helen Elfer has more below...

Could Brian Laundrie’s notebook found by FBI explain what happened to him?

Brian Laundrie’s father found his “dry bag” and police found his backpack

Thursday 21 October 2021 15:39 , Graig Graziosi

Brian Laundrie’s father, Chris, reportedly found his son’s “dry bag” - a special bag used while kayaking or camping to keep certain items and food dry - while searching the trails at the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park with police on Wednesday.

A law enforcement officer found Mr Laundrie’s backpack.

The items were reportedly previously obscured due to high water in the protected swamp.

Former police officer and police dog handler says human remain detecting dogs should have found the partial remains

Thursday 21 October 2021 15:13 , Graig Graziosi

A former police officer and police dog handler, Kyle Heyen, told News Nation Now that even if the human remains found at the Carlton Reserve were underwater, human remain detecting dogs should have been able to pick up on the scent and locate the remains.

“If the body had been there, when they went by with cadaver dogs, and the body had been there for more than two or three minutes, the odor would have come through the water,” Mr Heyen said on Dan Abrams Live. “They should have been able to locate that body.”

He said the fact that the dogs missed the body was “suspicious.”

“It’s highly suspicious,” he said. “If the body was there at that time, x weeks ago, and if it’s the same dog and the same quality of dog or same quality of training, they should have found him. They would have detected Laundrie’s body.”

Corn maze in Florida cut into Gabby Petito memorial

Thursday 21 October 2021 14:45 , Graig Graziosi

A corn maze at what appears to be a festival or outdoor event in Tampa Bay, Florida, was cut to create a memorial for Gabby Petito.

From the sky, the words “RIP Gabby” can be seen cut into the corn maze, along with what appears to be a cross and a heart.

A permanent memorial for Ms Petito will be installed outside North Port, Florida’s city hall in the form of a steel bench.

Laundrie family attorney responds to discovery of personal items and partial human remains near Carlton Reserve

Thursday 21 October 2021 14:28 , Graig Graziosi

Steven Bertolino, the attorney representing Brian Laundrie and his parents, released a statement last night addressing the discovery by law enforcement of a backpack and a notebook that are believed to belong to him, as well as partial human remains.

“The probability is strong that it is Brian’s remains but we are going to wait for the forensic results to come in to verify that,” Mr Bertolino said, noting that his parents were “heartbroken” and that they would remain silent until it is confirmed that the remains belong to Mr Laundrie.

The FBI said it could take several days before the remains are identified.

Tent has been set up in Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park

Thursday 21 October 2021 13:55 , Eleanor Sly

Dog the Bounty Hunter “praying for Gabby’s family”

Thursday 21 October 2021 13:45 , Eleanor Sly

Dog the Bounty Hunter has said that he is “praying for Gabby’s family”

He said: “We are praying for Gabby’s family as yet another day ends with seemingly more questions than answers though it does seem the search for Brian is indeed over,” reported The Sun.

Dog went on to add that there would be questions over the extent of Laundrie’s parents’ involvement as well as how exactly the items found on Wednesday were discovered.

“There will be time to ask questions like what was the extent of the Laundries’ involvement in aiding Brian, how exactly did the discovery of belongings happen today, did the looming possibility of potential indictments prompt more cooperation, and so forth. Now we wait,” he said.

Meanwhile Dog’s daughter, Lyssa Chapman tweeted on Wednesday: “Sending you strength and love today. @josephpetito”

Laundrie’s parents assumed experts would find son

Thursday 21 October 2021 13:35 , Eleanor Sly

Brian Laundrie’s parents’ attorney said that the couple had assumed that experts “would be able to locate Brian,” when asked why exactly they had waited until Wednesday to aid in the search for their son.

Steven Bertolino, the attorney for the Laundrie family, said that the park had not been open to the public any sooner than Tuesday.

He underlined how once the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park was opened, Laundrie’s parents had joined search teams to help look for their missing son.

Speaking to CNN’s Chris Cuomo, Mr Bertolino said: "The parents had assumed that the experts, the FBI and all the tracking teams they had, would be able to locate Brian based upon the information that we had provided them to the specific areas and trails in the park that Brian liked to visit.”

After Gabby Petito’s death is confirmed as strangulation, key questions remain

Thursday 21 October 2021 13:10 , Eleanor Sly

As a coroner ruled that Gabby Petito died by strangulation, key aspects of the investigation into her disappearance and homicide remain shrouded in mystery.

Teton County Coroner Brent Blue revealed new details of Ms Petito’s death during a press conference on Tuesday afternoon.

Dr Blue said judging from the decomposition of the body, it had been in the wilderness for three to four weeks prior to being discovered on 19 September.

Read more from Bevan Hurley here:

After Gabby Petito’s death is confirmed as strangulation, these key questions remain

Brian Laundrie: Who are missing boyfriend’s parents Christopher and Roberta Laundrie?

Thursday 21 October 2021 12:45 , Eleanor Sly

Chris and Roberta Laundrie led authorities to personal items belonging to their son Brian in the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park on Wednesday, marking the most significant update in the hunt for their fugitive son since he disappeared in mid-August.

Human remains were found in the area later in the day, although no immediate confirmation of the identity was made.

Prior to the discovery, the parents had remained steadfastly silent amid intense public scrutiny as their son Brian became the subject of a nationwide FBI manhunt.

Bevan Hurley reports:

Who are Brian Laundrie’s parents?

Notebook found in Laundrie search could include suicide note, criminologist suggests

Thursday 21 October 2021 12:22 , Eleanor Sly

Criminologist thinks Laundrie’s notebook may ‘have some answers'

Thursday 21 October 2021 12:04 , Eleanor Sly

A criminologist thinks that the notebook was the most interesting thing discovered on Wednesday in the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park.

Casey Jordan, a criminologist, suggested that Brian Laundrie’s notebook could “have some answers.”

Speaking to CNN on The Lead, with Jake Tapper, Ms Jordan said that the discovery of the notebook raised several questions.

She explained that its discovery “really raises the question that if indeed this is Brian Laundrie and if he died by his own hand.

“Did he take the time to write out a note of explanation, maybe even regret, something that would give answers, not only to the police but to Gabby’s family,” Ms Jordan added.

The criminologist went on to suggest that she thinks there is “a very good change” that there could be writing within the notebook.

“We the public may never know the content, I’m not sure that we’d get to know, but it would certainly indicate[…] That he might have harmed himself or have had suicidal ideations when he went into the reserve,” she said.

How long could it take to identify the human remains found in search for Laundrie?

Thursday 21 October 2021 11:39 , Eleanor Sly

According to medical examiners at the scene, it could take “a day or two” to identify the human remains which were discovered on Wednesday in the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park.

Brian Entin, a correspondent for News Nation Now, based in Miami, tweeted: “ “With luck it could be a day or two, but it could also be longer.” That’s how long the medical examiner here says it could take to identity the remains. “

Laundrie’s parents ‘advised’ law enforcement to look in spot where human remains were found

Thursday 21 October 2021 11:20 , Eleanor Sly

Laundrie’s parents apparently ‘advised’ law enforcement to look in the place where suspected human remains were discovered on Wednesday, their attorney Steven Bertolino told Insider.

He explained: "Chris Laundrie discovered a ‘dry bag’ containing some of Brian’s items in the woods alongside the trail and a law enforcement officer also found a backpack nearby on the side of the trail near the remains.”

Mr Bertolino added that the Laundrie family were waiting for human remains to be forensically identified prior to “making any additional comments.”

Brian Laundrie: Strong probability' the remains found near the notebook are Brian's, lawyer says

Thursday 21 October 2021 10:58 , Eleanor Sly

Former NYPD chief says something about the case ‘amiss'

Thursday 21 October 2021 10:37 , Eleanor Sly

A former NYPD chief has said he thinks the events leading up to the discovery of human remains in the Florida reserve, as well as the items themselves were “quite strange.”

Former Chief of Detectives Robert Boyce for NYPD told ABC 7’s eyewitness news that he thought something about the case was “amiss.”

He said: "There are just too many strange turns that Chris and Roberta Laundrie haven’t been involved in it to not believe that something is amiss here.”

In reference to Mr Laundrie’s parents being at the scene when human remains were discovered, Mr Boyce commented: “The day the park reopens, they go into this specific area... They go to this exact spot and they find the backpack and they identify the backpack from what I understand and the notebook in this particular area, so it’s quite strange.”

Adding: "So, they go to this one location, this remote location where it’s a path where people go by and they’re being told by the FBI agent that all of a sudden we found something, we found the remains... So there’s a lot of things here that don’t add up to coincidence, so you wonder how they got there and what they knew all along.”

Brian Laundrie search: Did parents lead FBI to spot where remains and Brian’s notebook were found?

Thursday 21 October 2021 10:17 , Eleanor Sly

Law enforcement agencies looking for Brian Laundrie recovered some items belonging to him at an area his parents “had initially advised” them to search, claimed their family lawyer.

Investigators of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), leading a search for the missing fiancé of slain 22-year-old blogger Gabby Petito, had on Wednesday found “human remains” at a Florida park.

The agents said they also found items they believe belong to Mr Laundrie, who is a person of interest in Petito’s death.

Namita Singh has more here:

Did Brian Laundrie’s parents lead FBI to spot where remains and notebook were found?

Temporary flight restriction in place over Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park

Thursday 21 October 2021 10:00 , Eleanor Sly

A temporary flight restriction has been issued over the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park in Florida, following the discovery of suspected human remains there.

The restriction means that aircrafts, including drones, are not permitted to fly in the 10-mile diameter area, up to 3,000 feet above the park.

Before the restriction came into force, local news stations had been using helicopters to provide live aerial footage of the scene.

The flight restriction is set to expire on 22 October at 4 pm ET.

Gabby Petito timeline: When was she found and how did she die?

Thursday 21 October 2021 09:40 , Eleanor Sly

See below for a timeline of everything we know so far about the disappearance of Brian Laundrie and death of Gabby Petito.

A timeline of events in the Gabby Petito case

Laundrie’s parents were at reserve when remains found

Thursday 21 October 2021 09:20 , Eleanor Sly

Brian Laundrie’s parents were at the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park when human remains and a few of their son’s possessions were discovered on Wednesday, the Laundrie family’s attorney told CNN.

Steven Bertolino said: “Chris and Roberta Laundrie were at the reserve earlier today when human remains and some of Brian’s possessions were located in an area where they had initially advised law enforcement that Brian may be.”

He added: “Chris and Roberta will wait for the forensic identification of the human remains before making any additional comments.”

Brian Laundrie search: Did parents lead FBI to spot where remains and Brian’s notebook were found?

Thursday 21 October 2021 09:59 , Eleanor Sly

Law enforcement agencies looking for Brian Laundrie recovered some items belonging to him at an area his parents “had initially advised” them to search, claimed their family lawyer.

Investigators of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), leading a search for the missing fiancé of slain 22-year-old blogger Gabby Petito, had on Wednesday found “human remains” at a Florida park.

The agents said they also found items they believe belong to Mr Laundrie, who is a person of interest in Petito’s death.

Namita Singh reports:

Did Brian Laundrie’s parents lead FBI to spot where remains and notebook were found?

Five bodies have been found since Gabby Petito vanished and thrust missing people into spotlight

Thursday 21 October 2021 08:57 , Eleanor Sly

The bodies of at least five missing persons have been found amid the intense focus on Gabby Petito’s homicide and the disappearance of fugitive Brian Laundrie.

Mr Laundrie has been missing for five weeks after going on the run from authorities following the death of Ms Petito, who was found in a remote national forest in Wyoming on 19 September.

Authorities also suspected Mr Laundrie of involvement in a double homicide in Moab, Utah, but later admitted he had no involvement in the murder case.

Bevan Hurley has more:

Five bodies found since Gabby Petito case thrust missing people into spotlight

Watch: Brian Laundrie: Human remains found in hunt for fugitive

Thursday 21 October 2021 08:40 , Eleanor Sly

Watch: Human remains found in hunt for Brian Laundrie

Onlookers arrive outside Laundrie’s parents home

Thursday 21 October 2021 08:18 , Eleanor Sly

A number of onlookers appeared outside Brian Laundrie’s parents home in North Port, Florida, following reports that possible human remains, a backpack and a notebook were found at the Myakkahatchee Creek environmental park.

The remains have yet to be identified, although the FBI released a statement saying: “Investigators found what appeared to be human remains, along with personal items … belonging to Brian Laundrie.”

The news comes just days after Mr Laundrie’s father appeared from his house to tear down a protest sign which, according to Fox News, read “What if it was Cassie?”

Florida governor expresses condolences to Petito’s father

Thursday 21 October 2021 08:02 , Eleanor Sly

The governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, spoke to Gabby Petito’s father, Joe Petito, on Wednesday to offer his condolences over the loss of his daughter.

Mr DeSantis’ press secretary, Christina Pushaw, told Fox News: "He’s a dad as well – the governor.” She added: "He has kids. He just empathises and he wanted to reach out and express his support.

The news comes one month after the Florida governor tweeted calling for “justice for Gabby Petito” and pledging the help of “all state agencies under [his] purview” to continue the search.

Laundrie family attorney says he told them to remain silent

Thursday 21 October 2021 07:43 , Eleanor Sly

The attorney for the Laundrie family, Steven Bertolino, has revealed that he instructed Brian Laundrie’s parents to remain silent and told them initially not to talk to authorities.

Mr Cuomo aired his suspicions to Mr Bertolino saying: “You don’t have to be a lawyer to be suspicious when someone won’t cooperate with looking for someone they supposedly care about.

“What is the good reason that they wouldn’t want to speak to authorities or to their fiance, their son’s fiance’s family?” he added.

Mr Bertolino responded: “I can tell you the reason, I told them not to…”

He went on to explain: “Everybody has the right to remain silent, and that’s what I told my clients, and that’s what they did.”

Before adding: “This is the advice I gave them, this is the advice they’re taking, that’s on me.”

‘Justice for Gabby’: Protesters chant as FBI reveal human remains found next to Brian Laundrie’s backpack and notebook

Thursday 21 October 2021 07:24 , Eleanor Sly

Protesters repeatedly chanted “Justice for Gabby” as the FBI revealed it would take some time to confirm whether human remains found in a Florida nature reserve belong to Brian Laundrie.

The FBI special agent in charge of the bureau’s Tampa office, Michael McPherson, said the remains found in the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park on Wednesday were located next to a backpack and notebook belonging to Mr Laundrie.

“The team will be on the scene for several days,” Mr McPherson said, adding that law enforcement were working “diligently” to confirm the identity of the remains.

Bevan Hurley reports:

Protesters chant as FBI reveal remains found next to Brian Laundrie’s notebook

Dog the Bounty Hunter: Laundrie search 'seems to be over'

Thursday 21 October 2021 06:50 , Maroosha Muzaffar

Duane Chapman, aka Dog the Bounty Hunter, has called off his search for Brian Laundrie after the FBI announced on Wednesday that they found partial human remains and personal items believed to belong to Mr Laundrie in the Carlton Reserve.

Mr Chapman, who had launched his own hunt for the fugitive in September, told the Sun: “We are praying for Gabby’s family as yet another day ends with seemingly more questions than answers though it does seem the search for Brian is indeed over.”

He added: “There will be time to ask questions such as what was the extent of the Laundries’ involvement in aiding Brian. But now we wait.”

The attorney representing Mr Laundrie’s parents, Steven Bertolino, has said that there is a “strong probability” that the remains belong to Brian.

Florida governor calls Gabby’s Petito’s father to express condolences

Thursday 21 October 2021 06:15 , Maroosha Muzaffar

Weeks after Gabby Petito’s remains were found in Wyoming, Ron DeSantis, the Florida governor, spoke with her father Joseph Petito on Wednesday afternoon to express his condolences.

Mr DeSantis’s press secretary, Christina Pushaw, told Fox News: “He’s a dad as well – the governor. He has kids. He wanted to reach out and express his support.”

On Wednesday, the FBI found partial human remains and a few personal items believed to belong to the 23-year-old Brian Laundrie. Steven Bertolino, the attorney representing Mr Laundrie’s parents, also said that there was a “strong probability” that the remains found in the Carlton Reserve could be that of the fugitive.

Last month, the governor had tweeted that “I have directed all state agencies under my purview to continue to assist federal & local law enforcement as they continue to search - we need justice for Gabby Petito.”

‘Strong probability’ remains belong to Brian Laundrie, lawyer suggests

Thursday 21 October 2021 05:36 , Maroosha Muzaffar

Steven Bertolino, the attorney representing Brian Laundrie’s parents, has said there is a “strong probability” that human remains found on Wednesday belong to the 23-year-old fugitive.

Brian’s father Chris Laundrie is believed to have been the first to discover a “dry bag” belonging to his son in the Carlton Reserve in North Port, Florida.

Brian’s parents had joined the search earlier in the day, and the FBI said later at a press conference that they had found partial human remains and a number of personal items belonging to Mr Laundrie.

In an interview with CNN, Mr Bertolino said: “The probability is strong that it is Brian’s remains, but we’re going to wait for the forensic results to come in and verify that.”

Partial human remains ‘appear to have been there for a while’

Thursday 21 October 2021 05:20 , Maroosha Muzaffar

A source close to the Gabby Petito investigation has revealed that the human remains found by the FBI on Wednesday inside Carlton Reserve “appear to have been there a while.”

Quoting the unidentified source, CNN reported that “based on the condition of the remains, it may take some time to officially identify. It is going to be a very thorough process with the medical examiner.”

The partial human remains were found, according to Josh Taylor, the North Port police spokesperson, about “two to three miles inside the Carlton Reserve, or about a 45-minute walk from the entrance at Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park.”

Meanwhile, investigators are now calling the death of Gabby Petito “murder” following the discovery of human remains believed to belong to Brian Laundrie.

Identification of partial human remains could take time

Thursday 21 October 2021 05:02 , Maroosha Muzaffar

After the FBI discovered human remains and personal items in the search for Brian Laundrie, the medical examiner involved has cautioned that formal identification of the remains might take some time.

Michael McPherson, chief of the Tampa FBI office, said at a news conference that it will take time to identify the remains, which forensic teams were still examining.

The medical examiner said: “With luck it could be a day or two, but it could also be longer.”

Mr McPherson said that the team is “working diligently to get those answers for you.” He also pointed out that the FBI could yet be on site for several days.

Earlier today, the FBI found what appears to be human remains along with personal items including a backpack and a notebook that appeared to belong to Mr Laundrie in the Carlton Reserve.

Portions of Myakkahatchee Creek Park and Carlton Reserve remain closed to public

Thursday 21 October 2021 04:27 , Maroosha Muzaffar

The FBI has said that “portions of the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park and Carlton Reserve will remain closed to the public until further notice.”

A part of the Carlton Reserve was thrown open to the public a day before but after the FBI announced that they found partial human remains, it was closed again to the public.

FBI said: “This is an active and ongoing investigation. We ask the public to maintain distance.”

Meanwhile, at a press conference announcing the discovery at a campsite in Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park, FBI special agent in charge of the bureau’s Tampa office, Michael McPherson, said it would take some time to confirm whether the remains belong to Mr Laundrie.

ICYMI: FBI calls Gabby Petito death ‘murder’ for first time after

Thursday 21 October 2021 04:00 , Justin Vallejo

Investigators are now calling the death of Gabby Petito "murder" following the discovery of human remains believed to belong to suspect Brian Laundrie.

At a press conference announcing the discovery at a campsite in Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park, the FBI special agent in charge of the bureau’s Tampa office, Michael McPherson, said it would take some time to confirm whether the remains belong to Mr Laundrie.

"A person of interest in the murder of Gabby Petito," Mr McPherson said.

The case has been ruled a homicide by the Teton County Coroner, and this is believed to be the first time her death has been described as murder by a law enforcement official.

FBI calls Gabby Petito death ‘murder’ for first time

What would happen if Brian Laundrie is never found?

Thursday 21 October 2021 03:00 , Justin Vallejo

With human remains found at a campsite believed to belong to Brian Laundrie, The Independent’s Graig Graziosi asks what would happen if the prime suspect is Gabby Petito’s murder is not found alive. Can his parents be charged with a crime? Can he be tried in absentia?

“In the meantime, former FBI agents have warned that the agency cannot indefinitely task agents to hunting Mr Laundrie, and that at some point - likely soon - the agency will have to shift focus back to its primary mission. Even Dog the Bounty Hunter - who sustained an ankle injury - has left Florida to return to Colorado, vowing he would rejoin the search if a “solid lead” surfaces.”

What would happen if Brian Laundrie is never found?

Family and friends of murdered radio personality Gaby Ramos hold candlelight vigil

Thursday 21 October 2021 02:00 , Justin Vallejo

Activist Martha Black remembers Gaby Ramos as a “marvellous woman” whose “light has not been dulled and voice has not been turned off… she was positive, she was happy, she was sunshine,” writes The Independent’s Enrique Limón.

“Calling on the Gabby Petito case, Ms Black asked the media present to continue sharing Ms Ramos’ story and image after the initial wave of interest quiets down.”

Family and friends of murdered radio personality Gaby Ramos hold candlelight vigil

Brian Laundrie parents respond to remains found at campsite

Thursday 21 October 2021 01:00 , Justin Vallejo

Chris and Roberta Laundrie, through their attorney Steven Bertolino, confirmed they directed authorities to the campsite where the remains were found but said they would wait for forensic identification before saying more.

Read the full statement below, via News Nation Now reporter Brain Entin:

“Chris and Roberta Laundrie were at the reserve earlier today when human remains and some of Brian’s possessions were located in an area where they had initially advised law enforcement that Brian may be. Chris and Roberta will wait for the forensic identification of the human remains before making any additional comments.”

FBI calls Gabby Petito death ‘murder’ for first time after human remains found in Brian Laundrie search

Wednesday 20 October 2021 23:51 , Justin Vallejo

Investigators are now calling the death of Gabby Petito “murder” following the discovery of human remains believed to belong to suspect Brian Laundrie.

At a press conference announcing the discovery at a campsite in Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park, FBI special agent in charge of the bureau’s Tampa office, Michael McPherson, said it would take some time to confirm whether the remains belong to Mr Laundrie.

“A person of interest in the murder of Gabby Petito,” Mr McPherson said.

The case has been ruled a homicide by the Teton County Coroner, and this is believed to be the first time her death has been described as murder by a law enforcement official.

The difference between homicide and murder is a significant legal distinction, as homicide is a broad term that includes both the legal and illegal killing of one person by another person. A murder, however, is when that killing is illegal and done with some form of malice or intent. All murders are homicide, but not all homicides are murders.

Watch FBI announcement that items belonging to Brian Laundrie and partial human remains found at park near Carlton Reserve

Wednesday 20 October 2021 22:00 , Graig Graziosi

The FBI announced that a backpack and notebook believed to have belonged to Brian Laundrie as well as partial human remains were found at a park near the Carlton Reserve.

Watch the announcement below...

FBI confirms human remains and items believed to have belonged to Brian Laundrie found at park near Carlton Reserve

Wednesday 20 October 2021 21:36 , Graig Graziosi

FBI special agent Michael McPherson confirmed that human remains and personal items were found today. The items are believed to have belonged to Brian Laundrie in an area that was previously underwater.

“Earlier today, we found what appears to be human remains along with personal items including a backpack and a notebook which appeared to belong to Mr Laundrie,” Mr McPherson said.

Mr McPherson said teams will likely be on site for several days investigating the findings. He also referred to Gabby Petito’s death as a “murder.”

Portions of the Carlton Reserve and a connecting park will remain closed to the public. The investigation is still considered active as the FBI continues to investigating the findings.

Protesters began chanting “Justice for Gabby” immediately after the press conference ended.

The Independent’s Bevan Hurley has more on the announcement below...

Protesters chant as FBI reveal remains found next to Brian Laundrie’s notebook

Watch the FBI update on Carlton Reserve discoveries live

Wednesday 20 October 2021 21:25 , Graig Graziosi

The FBI is holding a press briefing today at 4:30pm EST to discuss items found at a park connected to the Carlton Reserve today that are believed to have belonged to Brian Laundrie.

Human remains were also reportedly found, but it those claims have not been confirmed by law enforcement.

Watch the update below...

Watch live as FBI hold press conference after remains found in search for Brian Laundrie

Who are Brian Laundrie’s parents, Chris and Roberta?

Wednesday 20 October 2021 21:15 , Graig Graziosi

Brian Laundrie’s parents have become the focus of countless hours of press and social media attention in the wake of Gabby Petito’s death and their son’s disappearance.

Who are they and why have they received so much attention over the course of the case?

The Independent’s Bevan Hurley has those answers in the story below...

What would happen if Brian Laundrie is never found?

Temporary flight restriction issued over Carlton Reserve

Wednesday 20 October 2021 20:52 , Graig Graziosi

The FAA has issued a temporary flight restriction over the Carlton Reserve where police are examining items that were found they believe may have belonged to Brian Laundrie.

Partial human remains were also reportedly found at the park connected to the reserve. Law enforcement has not confirmed that remains have been found.

The FBI is holding a press conference at 4:30pm EST to give an update on today’s findings.

What if Brian Laundrie is never found?

Wednesday 20 October 2021 20:45 , Graig Graziosi

Partial human remains have been discovered at the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park near Carlton Reserve. The remains were found near items that are believed to have belonged to Brian Laundrie.

What happens if the remains belong to Mr Laundrie? What happens if he’s never found? What would that mean for the Gabby Petito case?

The Independent’s Graig Graziosi has more on the story below...

What would happen if Brian Laundrie is never found?

FBI reportedly giving update at 4:30pm EST

Wednesday 20 October 2021 20:18 , Graig Graziosi

Journalists in Florida are reporting that the FBI is going to provide an update on the items found in the Carlton Reserve today that are believed to have belonged to Brian Laundrie.

The update is reportedly going to occur at 4:30pm EST.

Partial human remains have also reportedly been found, but no law enforcement agencies have confirmed those reports and it is unclear if the FBI is going to comment on those claims.

The Independent’s Helen Elfer has more on the update below...

FBI hold press conference after remains found in search for Brian Laundrie

Five bodies have been found since Gabby Petito vanished and thrust missing people into spotlight

Wednesday 20 October 2021 20:15 , Graig Graziosi

Five bodies were found by law enforcement during the same time that police were searching for Gabby Petito and Brian Laundrie.

Some of the bodies - like a hiker in the Bridger-Teton National Forest - were found as a direct result of the search for Ms Petito.

The Independent’s Bevan Hurley has more on the discoveries below...

Five bodies found since Gabby Petito case thrust missing people into spotlight