The trial of Chad Daybell for the murders of his first wife, Tammy Daybell, and his second wife’s children, JJ Vallow and Tylee Ryan, has captivated the world. Following the conviction of Lori Vallow Daybell, Chad now faces his own reckoning, with the potential for the death penalty looming large. This complex case involves a web of individuals, each playing a significant role in the unfolding tragedy. This guide provides a detailed look at the key players, their relationships, and their involvement in this harrowing case.
Lori Vallow Daybell: The Convicted Mother
Lori Vallow Daybell, born June 26, 1973, stands convicted of the murders of her two youngest children and conspiracy to commit the murder of Tammy Daybell. Sentenced to life in prison without parole, Lori’s history paints a picture of a woman with a troubled past. Married five times, her relationships often ended in turmoil. Prosecutors allege she embraced doomsday beliefs and, along with Chad Daybell, orchestrated the deaths of those deemed obstacles to their vision.
Chad Daybell: The Doomsday Author on Trial
Chad Daybell, a self-published author of doomsday fiction and member of the LDS church, is now the focus of intense scrutiny. Accused of manipulating Lori and sharing her extremist beliefs, he faces charges mirroring those of his convicted wife. The prosecution aims to connect him to the murders through his writings, his relationship with Lori, and the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Tammy Daybell: The First Wife
Tammy Daybell, Chad’s first wife, died mysteriously just weeks before his marriage to Lori. Initially attributed to natural causes, her death became increasingly suspicious as the investigation unfolded. Exhumed and re-examined, her remains revealed evidence of asphyxiation, shifting the narrative from natural death to murder.
Tylee Ryan: The Teenage Victim
Tylee Ryan, Lori’s daughter from a previous marriage, vanished in September 2019. A vibrant teenager, her life was tragically cut short. The prosecution alleges that Tylee’s questioning of Lori’s beliefs and new relationship contributed to her demise.
JJ Vallow: The Youngest Victim
JJ Vallow, Lori’s adopted son, was a young boy with autism. His last known sighting was in September 2019. The prosecution paints a heartbreaking picture of a vulnerable child caught in the crosshairs of his mother’s escalating obsession with doomsday prophecies.
Charles Vallow: The Murdered Ex-Husband
Charles Vallow, Lori’s fourth husband, was shot and killed by her brother, Alex Cox, in July 2019. Prior to his death, he expressed concerns about Lori’s mental state and her increasingly radical beliefs. His death marked a turning point in the tragic series of events.
Alex Cox: The Brother and Suspected Accomplice
Alex Cox, Lori’s brother, admitted to shooting Charles Vallow, claiming self-defense. He died in December 2019 before charges could be filed. Investigators suspect him of being involved in other aspects of the case, including the attempted murder of Brandon Boudreaux.
Zulema Pastenes: The Widow of Alex Cox
Zulema Pastenes, Alex Cox’s widow, testified about her involvement in the group’s “castings,” rituals aimed at ridding individuals of evil spirits. Her testimony shed light on the inner workings of the group and the extent to which its members believed in Chad and Lori’s doctrines.
Colby Ryan: The Surviving Son
Colby Ryan, Lori’s eldest son, provided emotional testimony during his mother’s trial, detailing his once-happy childhood and the devastating impact of her transformation. His recorded phone calls with Lori while she was incarcerated revealed the raw pain and betrayal he felt. Colby was briefly charged with sexual assault in September 2022, but the charges were later dropped.
Kay and Larry Woodcock: The Grandparents of JJ Vallow
Kay and Larry Woodcock, JJ’s grandparents, played a crucial role in initiating the investigation into his disappearance. Their persistent efforts to locate JJ brought the case to the attention of authorities.
Melanie Gibb and David Warwick: Key Witnesses
Melanie Gibb, a close friend of Lori, and her boyfriend, David Warwick, were among the last people to see JJ alive. Their testimony provided crucial details about the events leading up to his disappearance.
Melani Pawlowski and Brandon Boudreaux: The Attempted Murder Target
Melani Pawlowski, Lori’s niece, and her ex-husband, Brandon Boudreaux, became entangled in the web of intrigue when Brandon became the target of an attempted murder. Investigators believe the attempt was orchestrated by Lori, Chad, and Alex Cox.
April Raymond: The Former Friend
April Raymond, a former friend of Lori, testified about Lori’s troubling statements regarding her beliefs and her children. Her testimony provided insights into Lori’s mindset and the escalating nature of her doomsday obsession.
Sarena Sharpe: Another Follower
Sarena Sharpe, another follower of Chad Daybell, provided further context to the group’s activities and beliefs.
Samantha Gwilliam: Tammy Daybell’s Sister
Samantha Gwilliam, Tammy Daybell’s sister, testified about the suspicious circumstances surrounding Tammy’s death and Chad’s hasty remarriage.
Alice and Todd Gilbert: The Neighbors
Alice and Todd Gilbert, Chad and Tammy Daybell’s neighbors, provided testimony about Chad’s behavior before and after Tammy’s death.
Audrey Barattiero: Threatened by Lori Vallow Daybell
Audrey Barattiero, a former friend of Lori Vallow Daybell, testified about Lori’s threatening behavior towards her.
Conclusion: Seeking Justice
The Chad Daybell trial marks a pivotal moment in the pursuit of justice for Tammy Daybell, JJ Vallow, and Tylee Ryan. The intertwined lives of these individuals have led to a complex and chilling narrative. As the trial unfolds, the world watches, hoping for answers and accountability in this tragic case.
