Judge Dismisses Gabby Petito's Family Lawsuit

A Utah judge has dismissed the wrongful death lawsuit filed by Gabby Petito's family against the Moab Police Department, which alleged police negligence during a traffic stop that occurred weeks before her murder. The lawsuit claimed that police failed to adequately assess the situation when they encountered Petito and her fiancé, Brian Laundrie, and did not recognize the potential danger she faced. Judge Don Torgerson cited governmental immunity laws as the basis for the dismissal, stating that the constitutionality of the law could be reviewed by an appellate court. Petito's family plans to appeal the ruling, expressing hope for a reconsideration of their claims regarding the police's handling of the incident. The case has raised significant questions about law enforcement's response to domestic violence and the accountability of governmental agencies. Petito's tragic case has also highlighted disparities in media coverage of missing persons, particularly regarding gender and race.