Forensic pathologist reveals J.J. Vallow's cause of death in Lori Vallow trial

During the sixteenth day of Lori Vallow Daybell’s murder trial, forensic pathologist Dr. Garth Warren testified that her seven-year-old son, Joshua Jaxon “J.J.” Vallow, died due to duct tape wrapped around his body and a plastic bag over his head which restricted his breathing. It was also reported that the duct tape left bruises on J.J.’s wrists and ankles. The boy’s body was discovered nine months after he went missing and alongside him was his sixteen-year-old sister, Tylee Ryan, whose remains were mostly incinerated, hindering the investigation into her exact cause of death. Her DNA was found on a shovel in a shed.

Reports state that Lori Vallow Daybell and her fifth husband, Chad Daybell, are believed to be responsible for the children’s deaths, sharing a similar belief system involving reincarnation and the apocalypse. Lori Vallow Daybell was reported to have changed significantly after meeting Chad Daybell, according to her remaining son Colby Ryan, who spoke to jurors.

Both defendants were charged in connection with the killing of Tammy Daybell, Chad Daybell’s first wife, in October 2019, with her death initially blamed on natural causes. The couple married shortly after on November 5, 2019. Chad Daybell, who is separately being tried for the deaths of his ex-wife and stepchildren, is an author of books such as “Living on the Edge of Heaven,” “One Foot in the Grave,” and “Reclaiming Liberty.” Both Daybells entered not guilty pleas.

The testimony from Dr. Garth Warren has provided insights into the events that occurred leading up to J.J. Vallow’s death. The tragedy has resulted in many raising questions about the nature of Lori Vallow Daybell and Chad Daybell’s potential involvement in the deaths of the two children and Chad’s ex-wife, Tammy Daybell. The trial is set to continue, and it remains to be seen how the testimonies will continue to shape a clearer understanding of the tragic events that unfolded.