The initial cause of death has been determined as a homicide.

The FBI in Denver has confirmed that human remains found and recovered in Wyoming are those of missing woman, Gabby Petito. In an update released on Twitter this evening, the FBI Denver account stated:

"Teton County Coroner Dr Brent Blue confirmed the remains are those of Gabrielle Venora Petito, date of birth March 19, 1999. Coroner Blue’s initial determination for the manner of death is homicide. The cause of death remains pending final autopsy results."

Teton County Coroner Dr. Brent Blue confirmed the remains are those of Gabrielle Venora Petito, date of birth March 19, 1999. Coroner Blue’s initial determination for the manner of death is homicide. The cause of death remains pending final autopsy results. pic.twitter.com/JoHenMZ9UU

— FBI Denver (@FBIDenver) September 21, 2021

The FBI went on to say they appreciate the collaboration of all agencies and personnel who assisted in the search, recovery, and identification efforts. The disappearance of Gabby Petito has sparked global interest in recent weeks. In July, 22-year-old Petito embarked from New York on a cross-country road trip with her fiancé, Brian Laundrie. As they made their way west across the country in a converted Ford van, the couple documented their journey via social media. On September 1, 23-year-old Laundrie returned from the trip alone. Ten days later, Petito's family reported her missing, eight days after that, the FBI announced the discovery of remains that fit her description. Laundrie, who was a "person of interest" in the case has declined to speak to police thus far. He vanished from his Florida home over the weekend. "The news about Gabby Petito is heartbreaking," his family said via a statement. "The Laundrie family prays for Gabby and her family."   Florida police and FBI agents executed a warrant on the Laundrie family resident on Monday, officers with battering rams and body armour arrived at the home, the occupants were removed and it was declared a "crime scene." We'll have more on this story as it develops.