Brian Laundrie’s Remains Sent To Forensic Anthropologist, Family Lawyer Says

Topline

Brian Laundrie’s remains have been sent to a forensic anthropologist, the family’s lawyer, Steven Bertolino, told multiple publications Friday, presumably to help identify the cause of death of the 23-year-old, who was the subject of a manhunt after he vanished in mid-September following the disappearance of his fiancee Gabby Petitio, who was found dead weeks later.

Key Facts

Forensic anthropologists are often brought in to examine bodies that have been severely decomposed and mostly skeletonized, and can implement a laboratory analysis to determine how they died, according to the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

Laundrie’s remains, which were found Wednesday in Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park near some of his belongings, reportedly included a “badly” decomposed skull.

Federal investigators have not released details on the condition of the remains found. 

Key Background

The FBI determined Thursday that the remains belonged to Laundrie through a comparison with his dental records, ending a month-long search for him after he was reported missing on September 17. Laundrie reportedly went hiking in the 25,000-acre Carlton Reserve, which local and federal agents searched before a tip from Laundrie’s parents finally led them to the remains. His remains were found in an area that was underwater until recently, according to federal agents. The FBI named Laundrie a person of interest in Petito’s disappearance after he returned home alone in her van on September 1. Her body was found in late September and the FBI ruled her death a homicide. A federal arrest warrant was issued for Laundrie for allegedly using Petito’s debit card after she disappeared. 

Further Reading

Brian Laundrie’s Remains Found At Florida Nature Reserve, FBI Says (Forbes)

Human Remains Found In Brian Laundrie Search Were ‘Bones,’ Police Say (Forbes)

Human Remains Found Near Items Belonging To Brian Laundrie, FBI Confirms (Forbes)