Netflix has launched a gripping new three-part true crime documentary today (February 17) titled American Murder: Gabby Petito, which delves into the tragic events of 2021 that left the world in shock and sorrow. The series follows the story of Gabby, a 22-year-old American woman who was brutally murdered by her fiance, Brian Laundrie, during their cross-country journey across the USA. The documentary features intimate accounts from Gabby's family and friends, sharing previously unseen stories, footage and text messages related to the events of that time.
Gabby's mother, Nicole Schmidt, revealed that before the couple embarked on their trip, her daughter was in tears. When asked why she was upset, Gabby simply responded: "I don't know.". Nicole remembered: "I gave her this hug and I'll never forget she hugged me so tightly, it was just the best hug ever.", reports Surrey Live. She also shared the chilling last words she said to Brian, the man who would later murder her daughter. She recalled: "I remember saying to Brian, 'You take care of her, keep her safe', and he looked at me and he smiled and he said 'I will'.".
On July 2, 2021, the couple began their 'Van life' adventure, which Gabby was documenting on her newly created YouTube channel. As the documentary unfolds, it reveals that the couple had been involved in heated arguments and instances of physical abuse. In one disturbing incident, an eyewitness called the police about a domestic dispute between the pair, leading to them being pulled over for questioning.
The police had established that the pair had been involved in a dispute, with Gabby allegedly striking Brian first, though both had visible injuries. After thorough individual interviews, the officers instructed them to spend the night separately, with Gabby remaining in the van and Brian being transported to a hotel. In September, Brian returned to his family's home in Florida and Gabby was reported missing by her mother.
