The highly publicized case involving the tragic death of Gabby Petito has taken a significant turn as the families of both Gabby Petito and Brian Laundrie have reached a settlement in an emotional distress lawsuit.

Nichole Schmidt and Joseph Petito, Gabby Petito's parents, initiated legal action against Christopher and Roberta Laundrie, and their attorney Steven Bertolino, alleging intentional infliction of emotional distress. The lawsuit stemmed from claims that the Laundries were aware of Gabby Petito's murder shortly after her death in August 2021 but failed to disclose crucial information during the search for her.

In anticipation of a civil trial scheduled for May, both parties opted for mediation, ultimately agreeing to a confidential resolution to avoid further legal expenses and personal conflict.

The lawsuit, filed in March 2022, highlighted the emotional turmoil endured by Gabby Petito's family in the aftermath of her tragic death. Despite the discovery of Gabby's remains in Wyoming's Bridger-Teton National Forest and Brian Laundrie's subsequent death by suicide, questions surrounding the handling of information and communication between the families persisted.

Court documents revealed exchanges between the Laundrie family and their attorney, acknowledging Brian's disclosure of Gabby's death prior to her remains being found, raising concerns about the extent of their knowledge and involvement. Documents also revealed Gabby Petito's parents requested information from the Laundries during the efforts to locate her, yet the Laundries withheld any knowledge they had and remained silent.

In response to the lawsuit, the Laundrie family and Steven Bertolino contested the allegations, asserting their right to remain silent and the protections afforded by the First Amendment. They argued that their statements and actions were not intended to cause emotional distress but rather to express genuine concern and hope for Gabby's safe return. Furthermore, they maintained that the circumstances surrounding the case, including extensive media coverage and public interest, warranted protection of their constitutional rights.

Details surrounding the settlement remain undisclosed, as emphasized by statements from both the Petito and Laundrie families.