Lori Vallow Daybell has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murders of her two children, Tylee Ryan and Joshua Jaxon “JJ” Vallow. Tylee, 16, was Lori’s daughter from a previous relationship. JJ, 7, was adopted by Lori and her then-husband, Charles Vallow, in 2012. The case has drawn national attention for its shocking blend of family tragedy, religious extremism, and murder.

A Doomsday Romance Turns Deadly

October 26, 2018, Lori met Chad Daybell, a self-published doomsday author known for apocalyptic fiction. By 2019, Lori had separated from Charles and begun a romantic relationship with Chad. According to prosecutors, the couple embraced extreme religious beliefs centered on preparing for the end times. These beliefs, they argued, became the justification for a series of murders—including those of Charles Vallow – Lori;s husband, Lori’s children and Tammy Daybell, Chad’s first wife.

Timeline of a Tragedy

• April 3, 2019: Joseph Ryan died. Police Report
• July 11, 2019: Alex Cox shot and killed Charles Vallow Police Report
• September 2019: Tylee and JJ vanish within two weeks of each other. Police Report
• October 19, 2019: Tammy Daybell is found dead in her home in Idaho. Her death is initially ruled natural, and no autopsy is performed. Certificate
• November 5, 2019: Lori and Chad marry on a beach in Hawaii. Marriage Certificate
• December 11, 2019: Tammy’s body is exhumed.
  
• December 20, 2019 – Police announce JJ and Tylee are missing and link the case to Tammy’s suspicious death
• December 30, 2019 – Police state Lori knows where the children are or what happened.
• February 4, 2020 – Tammy’s autopsy is complete An autopsy reveals her cause of death: asphyxiation.
• February 18, 2020: Lori is arrested in Hawaii for failing to produce her missing children. Arrest Warrant
• June 2020: The bodies of Tylee and JJ are discovered buried on Chad Daybell’s property in Idaho.
• June 24, 2021 – Lori indicted in Arizona for conspiracy to murder Charles Vallow. Grand Jury Indictment
  

Multiple Murder Charges and Convictions

Both Lori and Chad were charged in the deaths of Tylee, JJ, and Tammy. In separate trials, each was convicted of murder and conspiracy to commit murder. Lori was additionally found guilty of theft related to Social Security benefits paid on behalf of the children.

• Lori was sentenced to multiple life terms without parole.
• Chad Daybell was sentenced to death.

New Charges in Arizona

June 28, 2021 Grand Jury Indicted Lori Vallow in Conspiracy to Commit Murder. Lori now faces new charges in Arizona, where Charles was killed. She has been charged with conspiring with Alex Cox to murder Charles Vallow. Her trial began in Phoenix in April 2025. In a surprising move, Lori has chosen to represent herself in the trial, citing her legal research and experience from prior proceedings.

The Death of Charles Vallow: Lori Vallow husband, Charles Vallow, was shot and killed on July 11, 2019, by Lori’s brother, Alex Cox. Charles had come to pick up JJ from Lori’s home in Chandler, Arizona. Cox claimed self-defense and was never charged. However, his wife, Zulema Pastenes, later testified that Chad and Lori had convinced Cox it was his divine duty to protect Lori, and he feared they would use him as a scapegoat. Alex Cox died unexpectedly in December 2019 of a blood clot in his lungs.

More Legal Trouble Ahead:

In addition to the Charles Vallow case, Lori faces a separate conspiracy to commit murder charge in the attempted shooting of her niece’s ex-husband, Brandon Boudreaux. He was shot at in 2019 but survived. Authorities believe Cox pulled the trigger. Lori has pleaded not guilty.

Lori’s Jailhouse Interview with “Dateline”

In March 2025, Lori appeared in an interview from jail with NBC’s Dateline. She denied all charges, made unsubstantiated claims, and attempted to blame JJ’s death on Tylee—despite clear evidence to the contrary. “She came in and had her own agenda,” said Dateline correspondent Keith Morrison. “She wanted to be the aggressor.” Lori continues to claim she is innocent.

Lori Vallow Daybell’s story is a chilling reminder of how delusion, manipulation, and radical beliefs can lead to unimaginable tragedy. Her trials may continue, but the legacy of those she left behind—Tylee, JJ, Charles, and Tammy—remains etched in public memory.

Leland Charles Anthony Vallow, known as Charles Vallow, was born on August 17, 1956 to Leland Eli and Tilda June Vallow of Lake Charles, La. A 1974 graduate of Barbe High School in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Charles went on to attend McNeese State University, where he earned a scholarship to pitch for the McNeese Cowboys baseball team. A gifted athlete, he made an immediate impression as a freshman in 1975 by setting a university record—13 strikeouts in his very first college game. He was also a proud member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity, forging lifelong bonds with his fraternity brothers. In 1977, he was drafted to play semi-professional baseball in Houston, a testament to his talent on the mound.

After his athletic career, Charles became a successful businessman and financial consultant. Known for his sharp business sense and steady professionalism, he built a stable and respected career in financial services.

Marriage to Lori Vallow and Family Life

He was previously married and had two sons from that marriage, with whom he remained involved and caring for his sons. 

In 2006, Charles Vallow married Lori Norene Cox, a charismatic and devoutly religious woman with two children from previous relationships: Colby Ryan and Tylee Ryan. A devout Catholic for much of his life, Charles converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) after marrying Lori, aligning himself with her spiritual path. However, over time, Lori’s beliefs grew increasingly extreme, influenced by fringe religious ideologies. These shifts began to create significant strain in their marriage, particularly as Lori’s views became apocalyptic in nature and began to alter her behavior toward her family.

In 2013, Charles and Lori made a life-changing decision to adopt Joshua Jaxon “JJ” Vallow, the grandson of Charles’s sister, Kay Woodcock. JJ, born in 2012, had autism and required special care and attention. They finalized his adoption in July 25, 2014. Charles was a devoted father, making sure JJ received the services, therapy, and support he needed. The adoption deepened the bond between Charles and his extended family, especially Kay and Larry Woodcock, who remained a vital presence in JJ’s life.

Before J.J’s adoption by Charles and Lori Vallow, JJ Vallow was born as Canaan Todd Trahan to biological parents who struggled with substance abuse. As a result of this environment, JJ was born with drugs in his system and required specialized medical care immediately after birth. He spent his earliest days in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), receiving the necessary treatment and monitoring. Due to the instability and danger posed by his biological parents’ circumstances, Kay and Larry Woodcock, JJ’s biological grandparents, assumed custody of him in May 2012. For nearly the first year of his life, JJ lived with Kay and Larry in a safe, nurturing environment. They provided him with the love and stability he needed during his earliest developmental stage, while he recovered from the physical effects of his prenatal exposure to drugs. In early 2013, after discussions with Charles and Lori Vallow—Kay’s brother and sister-in-law—the decision was made to allow them to adopt JJ, offering him a permanent family structure with continued involvement from the Woodcocks as grandparents.

Charles stepped up to the role of a devoted father. Together, they raised J.J. alongside Tylee Ryan, Lori’s teenage daughter from a previous marriage.

After adoption in 2014, seeking a fresh start and a peaceful environment, Charles and Lori moved their family from Lake Charles, Louisiana to the Hawaiian island of Kauai. There, they started a small business and seemed to embrace a quieter lifestyle.

When the Vallow family moved to Hawaii, the couple continued flying out every six months and communicated with JJ often via FaceTime. Lori Vallow was described as a doting and engaged mother.

However, by 2017, the family returned to the mainland United States, settling in Arizona in 2018—a decision that would mark the beginning of a troubling new chapter.

Timeline: 

Early Life & Career

• Full Name: Leland Charles Anthony Vallow, known as Charles Vallow.
• Birth date: August 17, 1956
• Occupation: Businessman and financial consultant
• Marriage 1: Previously married on May 18, 1991 and had two sons. Divorced: June 27, 2003
• Marriage 2: Married Lori Vallow (Cox) in 2006
  

Marriage to Lori Vallow & Family Life:

2005 – Lori Vallow met Charles Vallow

February 24, 2006: in Las Vegas Married and Charles Converted to Lori’s Religious Beliefs:

• Initially, Charles was a devout Catholic, but he later converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormonism) after marrying Lori. Later, Lori began developing extreme religious beliefs, which led to tension in their marriage.
  

2007:

• April 9, 2007 – Charles Vallow ex-wife begins to have concerns about Lori’s mental health. Ex-Wife Cheryl said: “She just seemed off. There were a lot of strange goings-on at their home to the point that a judge ordered cameras to be put in their home to protect the children,” Nothing suspicious or criminal was ever found on the video footage, Cheryl
• August 5, 2007 – Lori’s brother, Alex Cox attacks & threatens Lori’s 3rd ex-husband, Joseph Ryan in Travis Co, TX. Joseph Ryan was leaving after a custody visit with Tylee when Alex Cox approached him in the parking lot, pulled a stun gun & shocked JR with it twice. Joseph R got up to flee and Alex C chased him. JR fled past a witness who saw AC with the stun gun. Police Report
  

2008

• 2008 – Alex Cox pleads guilty to aggravated assault in the second degree on Joseph Ryan and sentenced to 3 months in jail Arrest Warrant
• March, 2008 – Lori and Charles Vallow sign a “lien release form” together in Travis Co, TX

2009

• 2009 – A civil court finds Lori Vallow in contempt and charges her with judicial interference for disobeying a child custody agreement with Joseph Ryan in regards to Tylee. Lori is found guilty of 7 different civil contempt charges. Lori ordered to comply with custody agreements.
  

2011

• January 2011, the court ordered Cox to pay $5,000 in restitution to Ryan and placed him on probation
• July 27, 2011 – Lori calls and cancels a July 30th court ordered psych eval appointment, saying that her sister in another state gave birth to a baby with medical complications and Lori was leaving town to be with her sister. Lori requested to change her appointment to October 4.
• July 30, 2011 – Lori was originally scheduled for a court ordered pysch eval in relation to a custody case concerning Charles Vallow 2 sons. She canceled this saying she was going out of town.
• July 31, 2011 – A psychologist decides to call Lori to schedule an appointment earlier after a concern that Lori is a “flight risk” was brought up in court
• August 13, 2011 – A process server serves Lori with the August 5 petition through serving her husband Charles Vallow. The document ordered Lori to undergo a psychological evaluation after she told social workers “death would be an option before giving Tylee to her father, Mr. Joseph Ryan, even for a visit.” The document goes on to say “These are real and serious concerns,”
• A civil court again finds Lori in contempt and charges her with judicial interference for disobeying a child custody agreement with Joseph Ryan in regards to Tylee.

2012

• May 25, 2012 – Joshua Jaxson “JJ” Vallow is born in Louisiana. He weighs 2lb 14 oz at birth. JJ would later be diagnosed with special needs- Autism and ADHD, and prescribed medication. JJ’s grandparents, KW & LW cared for him for 9 or 10 months prior to allowing KW’s brother, Charles Vallow and his wife, Lori Vallow to adopt JJ.

2013

• Charles Vallow and Lori begin the legal process to adopt JJ.

2014:

July 25, 2014 Adopted J.J. Vallow: Records

• Charles and Lori adopted Joshua “J.J.” Vallow, Lori’s grandnephew, who had autism and required special care.
• They raised J.J. alongside Tylee Ryan, Lori’s daughter from a previous marriage.

2015 – 2016

• January 12, 2015 Charles and Lori Vallow moved to the Hawaiian island of Kauai and on they started a small business
• December 2016 – Tylee is listed on the Honor Role as a Freshman at Kapaa High School in Hawaii.

2017

• The family moved back to the mainland and lived in Arizona.
• February 2017 to 23 Mar 2017 – Tylee is enrolled at Desert Ridge High School in Gilbert, AZ
• March 28, 2017 – Tylee is enrolled in Perry High School in Chandler, AZ

Marriage Breakdown & Fear for His Life

2018: Lori became obsessed with apocalyptic and doomsday prophecies, claiming she was a “translated being” and that Charles was possessed by a dark spirit named “Nick Schneider.” Lori claimed that she had a near-death experience in 2002 while giving birth to Tylee. She claimed that her sister, Stacey Lynn Cox Cope, who died suddenly in 1998 at the age of 31, came to her. Because of this experience, Lori claimed she has the power to communicate with dead relatives as well as Jesus Christ and angels.

April 13, 2018 – Joseph Ryan Tylee’s father and Loris Ex-Husband passed away. Police Report

October 2018 – Lori met Zulema for the first time in a meeting in Melanie Gibb’s home in Gilbert Arizona. Lori allegedly claimed she had been visited by angels and she had seen Jesus Christ. “That would be the highest spiritual experience that a human being could have,” Zulema said.

• Zulema began a friendship with Lori throughout text and email. That year she traveled with Lori to the “Preparing a People” conference in St. George; A religious conference to teach you how to be better prepared for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
  

October 26, 2018 – Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell met at a religious conference in St. George, Utah. Lori and Chad begin discussing their religious beliefs to justify killing Tammy, JJ and Tylee.

November 3, 2018 – Texts between Lori Vallow and Zulema Pastenes indicate Zulema believes she is meant to protect Lori.

November 4, 2018 – Lori Vallow appeared as a guest on a podcast titled “Time to Warrior Up,” where she discussed themes related to preparing for the end times and her personal spiritual experiences. During this recording, Lori stated:​

“The Lord is gathering his people. He is calling people to the 144,000. They’re being called now, and I have seen it, and I have been present when angels have ministered to call people to gather.”

December 5, 2018 – Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow made their first recording together on the “Preparing a People” podcast episode “Time to Warrior Up” This series focused on end-times prophecies and apocalyptic themes, reflecting their shared extreme religious beliefs.

January 15, 2019 Podcast recorded Time to Warrior Up with Chad Daybell

January 28, 2019 – Lori vacates the marital residence without informing Charles. Lori transferred $10,000 from business joint account to joint personal account. Records

January 29, 2019 – Charles is on a business trip in Houston when Lori calls him. Lori kept calling Charles Vallow by the name “Nick Schneider” on the phone. When Charles asked who Nick was, Lori said that he was Nick because Nick had killed Charles Vallow and taken his identity. Lori told Charles Vallow “She was a GOD and was assigned to carry out the work of the 144,000 at Christ second coming in July of 2020. She said Charles was in the way and she would have to murder him if he tried to stop her” Lori Vallow transferred $10,000 from personal joint account to her personal bank account. Later that day she also transferred $19,000 and then $6,000. Records

January 30, 2019 – Charles discovered his return flight was canceled at the airport. Charles finds out that Lori accessed his airline account and canceled the ticket. He is forced to buy a last-minute ticket for $600. Records 

• When Charles finally arrives back at the Phoenix Airport, he finds that his truck, which he had parked at the airport before leaving AZ, is gone. Lori had a spare key and removed the truck before CV came back. Charles Vallow attempts to contact Lori but ends up taking a taxi to Mesa. Then, a friend picks him up and takes him home from there.
• When Charles arrives at his AZ home, Lori changes the locks and removes “most of Charles’s possessions.” She Took JJ’s iPad and clothing. JJ’s medicine Took his clothing, including underwear. Took the service dog’s collar (possibly related to JJ, who had autism).
  
• Lori calls Charles and says she is staying in a hotel with JJ. She says she doesn’t want anything to do with the children anymore; she will drop off JJ at school in the morning, and Charles can pick him up in the afternoon.

January 31, 2019: Police Report

• Morning – Charles meets with Gilbert Police Department officers to discuss Lori’s behavior and attempts to have her evaluated for involuntary psychiatric commitment. Charles Vallow Teld Police Lori Vallow Locked Him Out of the House Body Cam. Lori told Charles “She didn’t trust him and would have to kill him when he got home. She would have an angel there to help dispose of his body. She also said she knew his real name Nick Schneider and said he would have to go and painfully”
  
• 12:36 PM – Lori, along with Tylee Ryan and a female friend, goes to the Gilbert Police Department to file a harassment complaint against Charles. Lori says that her husband, Charles V, stole her purse from her car while she walked JJ into school. Lori also accuses Charles Vallow of cheating on her while on his business trips. GPD calls Charles Vallow with Lori’s permission; CV says that he went to JJ’s school to help GPD serve Lori with an involuntary hold petition.
• Gilbert Police Department contacted Charles Vallow, Charles says that he saw Lori’s purse outside the school and picked it up to keep it safe; The LE on the phone informs Charles Vallow he could be charged with theft but that Lori only wants her property back; Charles Vallow replies that he wants his share of the money Lori had removed from their business account. He asks GPD if they are going to serve Lori with the petition for involuntary hold since she is there at GPD. The GPD officer on the phone tells Charles Vallow he is not aware of the petition but if Charles Vallow agrees to bring the petition and Lori’s purse to GPD he will have it verified by his sergeant. Charles Vallow agrees to bring the items to GPD. Police Report 
  
• The GPD talking to Lori finds her to be “in a normal state of mind” and ends up allowing Lori to go to the facility on her own to talk to staff, rather than have GPD escort her

February 1, 2019 – Charles discovers that she emptied their business account, withdrawing $35,000. Records

• 6:45 AM – Gilbert PD follows up with Community Bridges and is told that Lori checked herself in there but she was discharged only a few hours later
• 9:52 AM: Lori sent Charles a text message: “The truck is in the back of the parking lot of the Hyatt Place Hotel at San Tan. Your clothes are all in boxes at the house in the closet by the garage.” Charles responded: “1/2 the money today or no house. Sorry. It’s just wrong what you did. I’ll pick up JJ but nothing else changes till we get square. I will pay all the bills going forward plus whatever spending money you need. If you want a divorce, let me know. I don’t have an attorney, but we could do most of it ourselves.”

February 4, 2019 – Charles Vallow takes out an Order of Protection Charles Vallow on Lori Vallow Order of Protection

Charles filed for Protection Order in Arizona, citing Lori’s erratic behavior and threats against him. Records say that Lori again threatens to murder Charles Vallow when he returned to AZ; she allegedly said she had an angel to help her dispose of Charles body. She also said she would ruin him financially Records

• He claimed Lori threatened to kill him, saying she had been chosen by God to prepare for the Second Coming of Christ.
• He sought a protection order and emergency custody of J.J. but later withdrew the divorce filing, reportedly to reconcile.

February 6, 2019 – Charles realized that Lori had transferred 2,000 Rent-A-Car points out of their joint account. Lori texts Zulema, claiming that Charles Vallow is blocking her “gifts.” That same day Charles Vallow found out Lori had called JJ’s school to ask if he was in class. Charles was worried that Lori may be planning to use the rental car points to leave the state and potentially take J.J. with her” Record

February 7, 2019 – Charles contacts his financial institution to dispute the withdrawal but is told the account was in both their names.

February 8, 2019 – Charles files for divorce, claiming Lori views herself as a god and has threatened to kill him and He seeks custody of their adopted son Joshua Jaxon “J.J.” Vallow However, he later pauses proceedings, hoping to reconcile.

February 11, 2019: Charles received a call from The Orange County Sheriff’s Office and was informed that his business representatives had filed a request for charges theft against Lori Vallow for the theft. 

• Charles Vallow visits the school and shares that Lori (J.J.’s mother) had gone “crazy” and disappeared. He mentions Lori was hearing religious voices. He informs the school that he has an Order of Protection against Lori. Charles states he is taking J.J. to Louisiana to stay with his family for safety.

February 14, 2019 – Charles Vallow signs divorce paperwork that outlines in detail all that Lori has done and said over the last few months; Charles Vallow says he wants sole custody of his adopted son, JJ, and he also wants the property and money Lori took returned. The documents make disturbing allegations concerning Lori’s mental stability.

February 15, 2019 – Charles Vallow thru an attorney, electronically files a Motion For Order to Appear RE: Temporary Orders

February 20, 2019 – Lori added a password on Charles Banner Life Insurance account without his knowledge. Records

February 21, 2019 – Charles and J.J. return to Arizona, but Lori is still missing. 

• Officials at JJ’s school, Lauren’s Institute for Education (LIFE Academy), make a report to CPS because Lori had still not been located.

Late February – Lori Kleiman reports the situation to CPS due to Lori’s continued absence and concerns about J.J.’s well-being.

February 26, 2019 – Charles Vallow asked Banner Life to investigate his “soon to be ex wife” Lori Vallow changing his password to his $1M policy’s account. Charles Vallow Emails

• Between February 20, 2019, and July 15, 2019, there were five phone calls made regarding Charles Vallow’s life insurance policy.
• Charles confided in Kay that he changed the beneficiary of his life insurance policy to her. He asked her to use the money to raise JJ if anything happened to him and to give half of the funds to his two sons.

March 2, 2019 – Alex Cox forwarded a text from their mother to Lori regarding Charles Vallow.

“Love you to al. I do realize all of that. Realize this .. Lori canceled his trip home, his his truck, took all of his clothes and drained the bari< account. ff I was Charles I would be upset and do hurtful !tings, so would you. Also, even if Charles cheated with hookers, you dad and I can not ever judge … Charles has never done anything but support me, and love me. I love Lori with all my heart. I will help her in artfW8y a I can. But, because I have been talking to Charles with the spirit gliding me, even is he doesn’t have the spirit, it has lead him not to go through with a divorce, and decided to tum on all the cell phones and put them back in Lori’s name and move out of the house and is going to pay for Lori to move back in, no strings attached. So if that happens, just know the lord works in mysterious ways, sometimes things that looks black and white are actually grey. I love you, I would love to talk to Lori, but I haven1 heard from her. I know Im lead by the spirit in my actions”.

Seconds later, Alex sent another text to Lori that read, “Ned just came by and Tylee unleashed on him he came to my house and he went to- first. He ran up in a rental car”

March 6, 2019 – The court approves dismissal of Charles Vallow divorce proceedings against Lori and they remain legally married but separated

March 7, 2019 – J.J. is officially withdrawn from LIFE Academy in Gilbert school by Charles Vallow, stating he is taking him to Texas to live with family. Charles moved JJ to Houston, Texas, ending the arrangement of travel between Louisiana and Arizona. Kay (his sister) sometimes stayed with JJ in Houston when Charles was traveling for work. She would take care of JJ for several days at a time. Charles worked as a financial planner who sold annuities. Kay also assisted him with his business.

March 8, 2019 – Lori texted Alex Cox about “Ned” being gone soon.

March 10, 2019- Alex Cox texted Lori, “Have fun and get rid of Ned already.”

March 19, 2019 – Chad and Lori traveled together from Idaho to Arizona.

March 26, 2019 – Alex texted Lori: “Ned is still alive. Just confirmed.” Alex and Lori were referring to Charles Vallow and a dark spirit that Charles was potentially possessed by.

April 2019: Lori tell Charles she is moving to Texas to live with Charles and JJ. Charles halted the divorce proceedings and told his family he wanted to make it work between him and Lori.

May 3, 2019 – Zulema texts Chad Daybell, saying she heard a voice saying someone in Lori’s family would die.

May 17, 2019: JJ visited the Woodcocks in Louisiana for the weekend, and they celebrated his birthday.

May 29, 2019 – Zulema texts Lori about preparing for someone’s spirit to leave their body, referencing an attack on “Hiplos” (a name they used for Charles).

May 30, 2019 – Lori tells Zulema she believes Charles cannot “stay” more than five days and refers to a “time bomb.”

June 1, 2019 – Zulema tells Chad she is “working on Hiplos.”

June 2, 2019 – Lori texts Zulema to send “fire energy” toward Charles while he is driving.

June 3, 2019 – Lori returns to Texas.

June 9, 2019 – Lori Vallow sent to Chad pretending to be Charles asking him to ghostwrite a book for him.

June 13, 2019 – Lori uses Venmo to send her oldest son money with the note “Medicine” and a heart. This is the last time Lori used Venmo to send money.

June 18, 2019 – Lori contacts the school, stating that she and Charles are back in Gilbert, Arizona, with J.J. She inquires about enrolling J.J. in the summer program, and he is re-enrolled.

June 19, 2019 – Zulema asks Lori if there is a way to change “Hiplos” to the light.

June 20, 2019 – Charles and Lori rent a new rental house together from a landlord/friend, JP, in Chandler, AZ.

June 21, 2019 – Lori searches for Social Security disability benefits.

June 22, 2019 – Alex Cox joins the conversation about Charles.

June 26, 2019 – Charles Vallow sent a text to Adam (Lori’s brother) asking to chat. They had a telephone conversation.

June 27, 2019 – Charles sent Adam a link about “translated beings” and interdimensional travel, which Lori had been discussing extensively.

June 28, 2019 – Adam texted Charles, suggesting a family meeting to hold Lori accountable. Charles refused, stating he had tried to get her help but the family had turned against him.

June 29, 2019 – 5:51 AM Charles discovers a fictitious Email to [email protected] Lori wrote pretending to be him, asking Chad to come to Arizona, Charles confronted Lori about it. Later Charles Vallow emailed Chad Daybell accused his wife Lori of making a fake email account in his name to send Chad Daybell this message.

• 10:35 AM – Charles Messaged Lori: “I figured you’ll be busy running around with your boyfriend writing your book you can stay with him” Message
• 10:39 AM Charles Vallow sent email to his brother in law Adam “Lori, and Daybell were “up to something.” Email. Charles became increasingly afraid for his life, telling family and friends that Lori and her brother, Alex Cox, were plotting to kill him. Email
  
• 11:51 AM – Charles to Lori: “Interesting that you went on Allegiant to Idaho Falls on Sunday March 3rd and came back on Tuesday March 5th. I guess that was to see your boyfriend ? Wow. You are amazing. You accuse me of what you are doing. Are you even going to deny it ?”
• 11 :59:40 AM – Charles to Lori: “That’s what I thought. You are the destroyer. You blame others for what you are doing yourself. Too many people know what your up to. You will be stopped. I won’t be anywhere near there when it happens. It’s disgusting what your doing. You need to repent and you might escape with your soul intact. Maybe. Just maybe.” Message
  
• 12:22:01 PM – Charles to Lori: “I’m astonished at what you’ve become. You destroyed our life based on a lie. You are trying to destroy Brandon’s life based on a lie and now your carrying on with Chad Daybell all behind his wife’s back. All the while you are an apostate to our faith. The fact that you believe all these things about yourself that you told me in January is bad enough. You steal cash to fund whatever it is your doing and fly around cheating on me and our faith while going to the temple regularly. You obviously think all these things about yourself make you “special”. You are an incredible hypocrite. You make up a story about some girl I never heard of calling you saying I cheated on you only to distract from your evil ways. You will be stopped. This much I know. I’ll be there to take care of JJ. This will NOT end well for you and I will be as far away as I can until I come get JJ” Message
  
• 12:23:26 PM – “Just so you and Chad know I AM going to talk to Tammy. In person if I have to. I’ve already emailed and texted her. Your game is up”
• Charles Vallow contact to Tammy Daybell by email saying in part, “I have some disturbing information regarding your husband and my wife.” “Your husband and my wife are having an affair. It’s devastating, I know.”  Message
  

June 30, 2019

• Charles sent Tammy Daybell an Email
  
• 5:01 PM: Charles texted Lori. “You have destroyed me. I have never been lower in my life. Please explain. We have a son to raise but that’s all we have in common. You owe me an apology for all the false accusations you’ve made. I’ve been entirely faithful to you since the first day we met. I deserve an apology from you. Please respect that.”
• 5:04 PM: Charles Sent another message to Lori “And your boyfriend too”
• 6:22 PM: Charles sent another message to Lori. Charles Vallow told her he had obtained Tammy Daybell’s email address and cell number. Charles writes, “Just so you know, I am going to talk to Tammy. I’ve already emailed and texted her, your game is up.”

July 1, 2019 – Charles Vallow changed his life insurance policy, removing Lori Vallow as the beneficiary and replacing her with his sister, Kay Woodcock. 10 days before his death, Charles texts Lori:

• Charles to Lori: “I’m going to Idaho first to see Tammy Daybell.”
• Lori responds, “She won’t listen to you. She is my friend.”
• Charles: then asks why Lori sent a “BS email” about a book he wants ghostwritten.
• Charles: “There is no reason for it other than to get him in Arizona and have an excuse for his wife.”

July 2, 2019 – Zulema tells Lori she received “instructions” to destroy Charles’ aura.

July 4, 2019 – Charles texted Lori about booking a hotel while he visited, planning to stay with JJ.

July 8, 2019 – Charles sent an email to his sons, stating that he feared for his life and believed that Lori and Alex Cox were planning something against him. 

• Lori suggests calling an earthquake to affect Charles while he is in California. 
• Charles also, shared Lori’s letter to Chad Daybell with Adam and expressed concerns about her mental state.
  

July 9, 2019 – Lori finds out about Charles and Adam Cox’s plan for an intervention. 

• Adam told Charles he was going to Lori’s house to talk to her and would keep his phone recording.
• Adam suggested gathering proof to present to a church official who could revoke Lori’s temple recommend.
• Charles warned Adam that Lori might leave but agreed it was worth a try.

July 10, 2019 – Lori texts Alex and Melani, saying she needs them close and that “this week will change everything.” Charles was in Arizona and planned to meet Lori the next day to pick up J.J.

• Charles texts Lori to say he would be there at 7:30 am to pick up JJ on Wednesday and take him to school and he also wants to take JJ to school Thurs & Fri. Lori tells him he can take JJ to school but he cannot stay in house; She says she will book him a hotel room nearby
• Charles arrived in Phoenix and stayed at a hotel that Lori rented for him.
• He texted Lori asking if the hotel was paid for, and she confirmed it was.
• 7:49 PM – Charles Vallow texts his landlord, JP saying he wants to find a new place to live because things are not working out with Lori. They plan to meet to talk about it the next morning.

July 11, 2019 – Chandler, Arizona:

• 7:34 AM: Charles arrives at Lori’s house in Chandler, Arizona to pick up J.J. Charles was there to pick up JJ and take him to school.
• 7:37 AM – Charles’ last message was sent. Inside the home was also Alex Cox, Lori’s brother, who claimed he was staying there temporarily.
  
• Shortly After: He was fatally shot by Alex Cox, who claimed self-defense, alleging that Charles attacked him with a baseball bat.
• 7:49 AM – Lori took Charles’ rental vehicle and phone, left the house, and went to Burger King for J.J. and Walgreens for flip-flops.
• 8:32 AM: Alex Cox called 911, reporting the shooting. However, Charles had been dead or dying for approximately 43 minutes before the call. Upon Arrival of First Responders: Alex pretended to perform CPR, but emergency personnel saw blood, suggesting no real lifesaving measures were taken.
  

July 11, 2019 – The Death of Charles Vallow:
Location: Chandler, Arizona
Chandler Police Department: Detective Seth Tyler
Police Report

Charles Vallow’s Arrival and the Planned Morning Routine:

• Charles Vallow, 62, flew into Chandler, Arizona, on July 10, 2019, to visit his adopted son, Joshua “J.J.” Vallow.
• The plan was for Charles to take J.J. to school on the morning of July 11, 2019.
• Charles was shot and killed by Lori’s brother, Alex Cox, at a home in Chandler, Arizona.

On July 11, 2019 around 8:30AM Chandler police were summoned to the 5500 block of South Four Peaks Place for the report of a shooting. When officers arrived they discovered 62-year-old Charles Vallow unresponsive and with two gunshot wounds to his chest. Vallow, a resident of Texas, was pronounced deceased on-scene. Investigators learned Vallow arrived at the residence to pick up his son. Vallow’s estranged wife resides at the Four Peaks residence with their son and her daughter. While at the home, Vallow and his wife engaged in an argument. Listen to the full 911 call made by Alex Cox after he shot Charles Vallow

• Charles tells a hotel employee to expect him and his son JJ back for breakfast that morning.
• 7:34 AM: Charles arrives at Lori’s house in Chandler, Arizona to pick up J.J.
• 7:35 AM – Charles texted Adam that Alex Cox (“Al”) was at Lori’s house. Adam suspected they were planning something.
• 7:37 AM – Charles’ last message was sent.
• An argument ensued between Charles and Lori. Lori’s brother, Alex Cox, and her daughter, Tylee Ryan, were also present in the house.
• Hearing the commotion, Tylee armed herself with a baseball bat and entered the hallway, where she witnessed her mother and stepfather arguing. She intervened, pointing the bat towards Charles. Charles took the bat from Tylee, leading to a physical altercation between Charles and Alex. Alex claimed that Charles struck him on the head with the bat.
• Moments Later: Lori instructed Tylee to take J.J. outside. Tylee complied, and while outside, she heard a gunshot from within the house. ​
• 7:45 AM: Alex Cox shot Charles Vallow twice in the chest, later claiming self-defense. ​
• 7:49 AM – Adam continued to send messages to Charles, but they were not read until 12:13 PM, when Lori had control of his phone.
• 7:54 AM: Lori went to Burger King with Charles Cell Phone: Charles’ phone was not found at the scene, or on his body. It was later turned over to the Chandler Police Department by Lori. The GPS data on it confirmed that Lori went to Burger King
• 8:15 AM: Lori also stopped at Walgreens
• 8:30 AM: Alex called 911 to report the shooting, stating he had shot his brother-in-law in self-defense. ​Lori Dropped JJ of at school.
• 8:36 AM: Chandler Police officers arrived at the scene and found Charles Vallow unresponsive with two gunshot wounds to his chest. He was pronounced dead at the scene. ​
• 8:40 AM: Chandler Police officers arrived at the scene and found Charles Vallow unresponsive with two gunshot wounds to the chest.
• 8:43 AM: Emergency medical personnel pronounced Charles Vallow dead at the scene. ​
• 8:45 AM: Lori, Tylee, and J.J. returned to the house. Lori informed the officers that she had left shortly after the incident to take J.J. to school. ​
• Charles Vallow’s estranged wife Lori Vallow and brother-in-law Alex Cox were transported to the Chandler Police Department for questioning. 
• Morning: Property manager finds crime scene tape around the Chandler, AZ house Charles and Lori were renting.
• 11:00 AM: Lori texts property manager, “We are ok, ill explain later.”
• Midday: Lori calls her son Colby and says Charles died of a heart attack. Colby visits the house, hugs Tylee, and learns Charles was shot. He confronts Lori, who offers no explanation for lying but shares the altercation story.
• Chad Daybell contacts mortuary about cremation and transporting Charles’ remains to Louisiana.
• Afternoon: Neighbors report a loud pool party in Lori’s backyard.
• Later: Zulema visits; Lori and Alex share their version of events. Lori says Charles had “supernatural strength” and Alex says he “killed a zombie.”
• 4:36 PM: Lori texts Charles’ sons without saying how he died.
• 6:54 PM: Charles’ son texts Lori again, frustrated she hasn’t explained how Charles died. Lori replies she is waiting on the ME.

Charles Vallow Murder – Crime Scene: Ongoing Investigation and Legal Developments – Baseball Bat Forensic Examination:

Early Morning Hours:

• 7:00 am – Lori’s brother, Alex Cox, says he woke up after spending the night in Lori’s Chandler, AZ rental home
• Charles arrived at Lori Vallow’s residence, where she lived with J.J. and her teenage daughter, Tylee Ryan.
• Alex Cox, Lori’s brother, was also present in the house.

Argument Begins:

7:30 am –  Lori says she had JJ’s backpack ready for school and she looked at the clock to note the time PD Interview

7:35-7:40 am – Lori claims CV arrives at about 7:35ish to 7:40 and is running late, which was unusual for him; he is usually punctual. She tells him to “go now” and get breakfast for JJ from Burger King. 

• Lori claims Charles takes JJ to the car but had left his phone on the kitchen counter and comes back in for it. Lori picks up Charles Vallow phone and refuses to give it back to him. Lori says she was trying to see texts he had on his phone and asking him about his texts to her other brother Adam. Lori says she wouldn’t give Charles Vallow back his phone and he was screaming at her to give him back his phone. Lori said she was “just holding it there” and he was screaming at her. Lori said she was “kind of walking around the house so he couldn’t get it” and “he was kind of reaching for it”.  Interview
  
• A heated argument erupted between Charles and Lori in the house.
• Tylee Ryan, who had been asleep, was awakened by the commotion.

7:50 am -Tylee says she wakes up hearing yelling in the hallway outside her bedroom door and grabs a bat she keeps next to her bed

• Tylee comes out of her room and sticks out the bat.
• Charles Vallow grabs the bat to pull it out of Tylee’s hands, Tylee lets go of the bat and falls to the floor.
• Alex Cox stranding behind Charles, He grabs Charles Vallow from behind, they both fall to the floor and somehow
• Charles Vallow hits Alex Cox on the back of the head with the bat.
• Tylee is sent out to the car to stay with JJ at some point after her fall to the floor. Lori says she doesn’t know when Alex Cox went to get his gun or if he already had it on him during the fight. Interview

8:00 AM – Lori says she heard a gunshot and walked from the kitchen to the living room to find Charles’ body. Then she checks on the kids in the car. She almost went back inside before ultimately driving off. This conflicts with Alex’s account given in his curbside interview that Lori and the kids left before he shot Charles.

8:00 am – Tylee says she is outside in the car making sure JJ does not go back inside when she hears a loud noise; 

• Tylee did not know what the noise was at first– at the time she heard it she thought it was the sound of someone hitting the metal bat on the floor really hard. 
• By the time of her police interview, however, Tylee says she found out what the sound actually was. 
• After the gunshot Lori immediately comes outside. 
• After coming out Lori sent Tylee back inside through the garage to get Lori’s purse out of the master bedroom closet. 
• Tylee says she didn’t see anything when she went back inside.
  

Lori Leaves the Scene: Lori Drives away in Charles Vallow rental car with JJ and Tylee to take JJ to school. It takes about 15 minutes to drive to JJ’s school. Lori says the fight happened quickly and that she was only in the car for “a minute” wondering what to do before deciding to drive JJ to school and get him and Tylee away from the scene Interview

8:20 am – The time JJ’s school gates open Interview.

8:32 or 8:35 am – The time that Alex Cox says he shot Charles Vallow according to his “er, couple of minutes” statement at the beginning of the 911 call. He says later that the shooting happened about 5 minutes before he called 911.

8:37 am – Alex makes a 6 min call to 911: “I got in a fight with my brother-in-law. and I shot him in self-defense,”. 911 Call

• An EMT instructs AC over the phone on how to perform CPR on Charles Vallow;
• Alex Cox answers questions about what happened and says his is doing the chest compressions while talking.
• Alex Cox says his gun, a .45 caliber pistol, is in a bedroom and no one else is in the house.
• Alex says “the shooting happened a couple minutes ago” then later in the call he says it happened “5 minutes before I called”.
• Alex Cox says CV “came at me with a bat” and “I’ve never seen him that enraged before”;
• Alex says Charles lives in Houston;
• Alex is not sure where Lori went but he thinks she has taken JJ to school.
• 911 operator asks Alex to walk outside with his hands up; Alex complies with the cellphone cradled in his shoulder

Police Investigation:

8:36 AM – Police Officers from the Chandler Police Department arrived to find Charles unresponsive with two gunshot wounds to the chest.

8:43 am – Police entering the house after Charles was shot, Alex is being Interviewed outside.

• Charles body on the living room floor laying parallel to a large wall mirror.
• Charles Vallow is face up with his arms spaced out evenly at his sides and his feet towards the kitchen; his head is in the direction of the front door.
• The bat is on the floor near the wall, it is located to the right and above Charles Vallow body, not in his hand.
• Police clear the rest of the home and note that the gun is on the floor in a bedroom.
• The bedroom is pink with black and white stripes.
• Alex claims in his curbside interview this was the bedroom he was staying in the night before;
• Alex Cox says he took the gun back there after shooting Charles Vallow and cleaned up his head before calling 911.
• Police cannot find any identification on Charles body and they look around the house trying to find his wallet
• Charles Vallow was pronounced dead at the scene at 8:43 AM.

Alex Cox – Curbside Interview

• When law enforcement arrived at the scene, they conducted a curbside interview with Alex Cox outside the residence.

LEO: “What happened today? How did it get to this?”
Alex: “I don’t know. He was enraged.”

• Alex began to say, “He was accusing me…” but didn’t finish the thought as a fire engine pulled up with sirens blaring, cutting him off.

LEO: “What was he accusing you of?”
Alex: “I don’t know. He was just yelling at me.”

• Alex stated that Lori, JJ, and Tylee had already left the house shortly before the shooting occurred. He said the incident was over his sister and that Charles Vallow had become physical with Lori. According to Alex, Tylee then came out with a baseball bat, and Charles took it from her.

LEO: “Wait a minute. I thought you said your niece left?”
Alex: “She did—this was before.”

• Alex explained that after Charles took the bat from Tylee, he (Alex) grabbed Charles from behind, and they both fell to the ground. As he got back up, Charles hit him in the back of the head with the bat.
• Alex says, “I turned around and he hit me in the back of the head with the bat, so I went to my room and got my gun, ’cause I always carry it.” He claims he warned Charles to drop the bat and then shot him twice in the chest.
• He told officers that he does not live at the house and was only visiting Lori. He had stayed the night because she was concerned Charles might cause trouble. He mentioned that he works as a long-haul truck driver but was on vacation and had been planning to “do something fun” that day.

8:45 AM – Lori and Tylee returned home to find police at the residence, she parked across the street from the house and approach the LEO talking to Alex

• LE tells Lori and Tylee to wait by the car across the street.
• LE approached Lori and Tylee on the curbside to get their names, phone numbers and ID; Lori says Charles lives in Houston, they are separated and that she moved into the house about 3 weeks before; Tylee says she is 16, her driver’s license is inside the house; Tylee says she once drove to Arizona from Texas all by herself
• Lori told officers she had left to take J.J. to school and was unaware of what had happened.

Police Investigation and Statements:

9:15 AM – Alex Cox is placed in the back of a police vehicle to be transported to the station.

• He is patted down by law enforcement, and the contents of his pockets are placed in a clear plastic evidence bag. He is given a bottle of water and seated in the back of the patrol car without handcuffs. The officer turns on the air-conditioning and shows Alex how to adjust the backseat vent.
• On the way to the station, they engage in small talk about the Arizona heat.
• The officer asks why Alex has a rental car. Alex clarifies that it’s not his; he says he drives the F-150 truck parked in the driveway. The officer radios this information back to the team at the scene, noting that the rental car Lori left in belongs to Charles Vallow and the truck belongs to Alex.
• Alex also talks briefly about his work truck. He says it’s a 10-speed automatic and struggles going up hills. He explains that he hauls hazardous waste from Arizona to Arkansas.

Interview Room Recording:

Alex Cox – Police Interview 
Date: Day of Charles Vallow’s death
Location: Chandler Police Department
Time Interview Began: 9:36 AM

Alex Cox was interviewed by detectives regarding the shooting of Charles Vallow. LE Examined his wounds and asked medical questions

• Alex reported soreness and a mild headache from being struck in the head, but declined medical treatment.
• He said he wasn’t nauseous and attributed symptoms to adrenaline.
• No significant medical issues aside from slightly high blood pressure; no medications.
• Detectives photographed his injuries (head wound, minor arm abrasion), swabbed his hands, and collected his clothing as evidence.
• Alex stated he is a long-haul truck driver (hauls hazardous waste from AZ to AR) and was on vacation.
• He had stayed at Lori’s house the night before.
• He said he and Lori had planned to do something fun that day—maybe the shooting range or taking JJ to a water park.
• That morning, Charles Vallow arrived at the home to pick up JJ.
• Alex heard yelling and saw Charles aggressively pursuing Lori down the hallway.
• Tylee came out with a baseball bat to defend her mother.
• Charles took the bat from Tylee. Alex said he stepped in to protect Tylee and Lori.
• He grabbed Charles from behind, and they both fell.
• Charles got up and allegedly struck Alex in the back of the head (Alex believes with the bat).
• Alex said he went to his bedroom, retrieved his handgun (a Springfield XD-M .45), and returned.
• He claims he told Charles to drop the bat. Charles allegedly said, “What are you gonna do?” and advanced toward him.
• Alex said he fired two shots center mass, killing Charles.
• After the shooting, Alex rinsed blood off his hands, put the gun down in the bedroom, got his phone, and called 911.
• He said Lori and Tylee had already left the house, and JJ was in the car.
• He attempted CPR after calling emergency services.
• Charles did not live at the house; he lived in Houston.
• Lori and Charles had been separated since January.
• Alex mentioned previous erratic behavior from Charles, including an incident where Charles blocked Alex’s driveway and argued with Tylee.
• Alex denied ever seeing Charles act violently until that day.
• He said Lori had shown him texts from Charles a few weeks earlier that were threatening in nature.
• Alex denied staying at the house because of concern for Lori’s safety, but admitted he was uneasy about Charles’s behavior toward her.
• Alex disclosed a past aggravated assault charge in Texas from 2007 but said he completed probation and had his rights restored.
• He stated he legally owns and carries firearms.
• The gun used in the shooting was kept in a bag at the foot of the bed, not carried on his person.
• Alex emphasized that Charles was physically aggressive that morning and that he acted in defense of himself and his family.
• He said he never expected the situation to escalate and hoped Charles would back down once he saw the firearm.
• He appeared consistent in his account, though some minor details (such as exact movements or number of shots) were unclear or uncertain.
• Let me know if you’d like this summarized further, turned into bullet points, or formatted for a report or timeline.

Lori Vallow – Police Interview  Link
Date: Day of Charles Vallow’s death
Location: Chandler Police Department
Time Interview Began: 9:42:19 AM

9:42 AM: After using the restroom, Lori is interviewed by law enforcement at CPD. The interviewing officer asks her to confirm that she lives at the residence where the shooting occurred and to provide some background. Lori explains she moved into the house about three weeks ago after previously living in Houston. She and Charles Vallow were separated, but Charles rented the Arizona house for her so she could be closer to her family.

• Lori says Charles was devoted to JJ, their adopted son, but never got along with Tylee, her daughter. She explains that JJ is Charles’s great-nephew and was born a “drug baby.” Charles travels frequently for work.
• According to Lori, Charles had only visited once since they moved and had dropped off some items. She says he had been sending her threats, which she claimed were on her phone. When the officer asks about them, Lori says they’d need to be seen to be believed. Charles, she adds, didn’t want a divorce, but she no longer liked him or wanted to deal with him. They had been married for 14 years. Lori describes Charles as consistently horrible to her and says he regularly fought with Tylee.
• Lori says Charles told her he was coming Wednesday night to see JJ. She told him he was welcome to see JJ and could take him to school whenever he wanted. When asked why Charles was renting her a home in Arizona, Lori clarifies that he had promised to rent it for her. She recounts how they lived in Arizona for years, but Charles pulled JJ out of school to move to Houston—something she was against. Lori allowed JJ to go with Charles initially and didn’t file anything in court. Charles later filed, telling her she would only get supervised visits because she was “crazy.” She says she let him take care of JJ alone for 30 days to show him what she had been doing for the past seven years. Lori mentions she has other children and grandchildren and knew Charles would eventually ask her to come get JJ—which he did.
• Lori says she eventually moved to Houston “for the family” with Tylee, even though they left everything behind. She describes the challenges getting services for JJ and accuses Charles of not helping.
• Charles hadn’t visited in a couple of weeks, and when he had, he had been “nasty.” He had said he was coming to pick JJ up Thursday morning and again on Friday. Lori told Charles he couldn’t stay at the house because of the ongoing conflict with Tylee, offering to get him a hotel instead. She says Charles travels often and usually stays in hotels, covered by his work. Lori describes herself as JJ’s primary caregiver.
• Lori explains JJ has been difficult lately because Charles disrupted his routine, and she didn’t tell JJ that Charles was coming to avoid a meltdown. She was surprised Charles didn’t bother her the night before because she was expecting a confrontation. She describes Charles as having a “macho” attitude and expecting to stay at the house because he was on the lease.
• The next morning, Charles arrived as Lori was getting JJ ready. He had texted that he’d be there at 7:30 a.m., but arrived closer to 7:35 or 7:40. JJ acknowledged him but ran to Lori, saying Charles wasn’t taking him to school. Lori reassured JJ that it was okay. She says Charles was acting “smirky” and “jerky,” but she ignored it.
• When asked, Lori says her brother, Alex Cox, stayed over the night before because she was worried Charles would cause trouble. She trusted her brother and wanted someone there. Lori described giving Charles JJ’s backpack and suggesting he take JJ to Burger King since the school gates didn’t open until 8:20. JJ is particular about food and likes chicken fries and Sprite for breakfast.
• Charles left with JJ but, as usual, returned shortly after, claiming he had forgotten his phone. Lori said this was typical—that he always leaves something behind so he can come back. She said the phone was on the counter and she picked it up. When Charles demanded it back, she asked him to show her the messages he had been sending, accusing him of acting “weird” and possibly plotting something. She also mentions her other brother, Adam, arriving in town the same time as Charles and wonders if they had been talking. She says Charles had sent her texts saying things like “you’re going down” and blaming her for the failure of their marriage and others.
• Lori claims Charles “went nuts,” as he had done in the past, forcing her and the kids to leave the house multiple times over the years. She describes his behavior as yelling, screaming, and physical aggression (grabbing and pushing but not punching). She says Charles had previously gotten physical with Tylee and her older son, Colby, and twice tried to hit Tylee in Hawaii when she was 13 or 14, but Lori intervened.
• Returning to that morning, Lori says she refused to give Charles his phone, and he began yelling. She walked around the house to keep the phone away from him. Tylee came out holding a baseball bat and told Charles to leave Lori alone. Charles screamed, “Don’t hit me with that bat.” Alex Cox came out after hearing the commotion.
• Lori says Charles and Tylee struggled over the bat, and Charles took it and tried to hit Tylee. Alex intervened and the two men wrestled. Charles hit Alex with the bat, and they grappled on the floor. Lori says she was trying to stay out of the way and remembered JJ was still in the car.
• At one point, Lori says Charles came at her with the bat, holding it in a backhanded grip. She tried to stay out of his range. She recalls Tylee fell back when Charles took the bat from her. Lori told Tylee to get in the car with JJ to keep them away from the fight.
• The officer asked what was said during the fight, and Lori recalls hearing things like “get off me” and “ow,” but doesn’t remember specific dialogue. After the struggle, Lori says Charles came toward her again demanding his phone. Alex was nearby. She doesn’t remember exactly how Charles was holding the bat but saw him holding it one-handed, backward. Lori turned away and heard a gunshot. She did not witness the actual shooting but came back around and saw Charles on the ground.
• Lori got in the car with JJ and Tylee and left. When asked what happened afterward, she says they didn’t speak—she and Alex were in shock. She considered returning to the house but decided to take JJ to school to get him away from the scene. Law enforcement asked when Alex got the gun—Lori didn’t know. She didn’t see him leave the room. She confirms Alex is a gun owner but didn’t know he had one on him.
• At the end of the interview, Lori describes Charles as “angry and super scary.” She believed there was something on the phone he didn’t want her to see and thought he would hit her with the bat to get it. She says he was out of control and dangerous that day—except toward JJ, whom she insists he wouldn’t have hurt. She says Charles did hurt her brother Alex, though, and was going “ballistic.” She describes the situation as “bad.”

Tylee Ryan – Police Interview  Link
Date: Day of Charles Vallow’s death
Location: Chandler Police Department
Time Interview Began: 10:14 AM

Tylee tells investigators that she woke up around 7:50 AM because she heard yelling right outside her bedroom door. She immediately jumped up. Tylee explains that she keeps a baseball bat in her room for protection; she had it from when she lived with her uncle and, since she’s not old enough to carry pepper spray, it made her feel safer when she was home alone.

• The officer says he hasn’t been inside the house and asks her to explain the layout. Tylee describes a hallway with three bedrooms—hers, the guest room where Alex Cox had stayed, and JJ’s room. The hallway leads to the kitchen and then to a large open room with mirrors on the walls, which is where the confrontation occurred.
• When she opened her door, Charles Vallow was right outside it. Alex Cox was nearby, partially in the doorway, and Tylee could hear her mother behind them. Charles was screaming at both Alex and Lori, but Tylee doesn’t recall exactly what he was yelling. She says she told Charles that he was standing too close and asked him to take a step back. Charles responded, “Don’t tell me what to do.”
• Tylee says Alex stepped out of the way, Lori walked past him into the large open room, and Tylee followed. The officer asks for clarification on where everyone was positioned, and Tylee confirms they were moving from the hallway into the main room. She says she didn’t do anything with the baseball bat—she just held it in her hands. Both Charles and Lori were talking loudly. When asked who was yelling, Tylee clarifies that it was mostly Charles; Lori was “responding” but not shouting.
• Tylee recalls holding the bat out toward Charles. He grabbed it and tried to take it from her, but she held onto the end. Eventually, she lost her footing and fell back while Charles got control of the bat. She saw him take a step back, and although she didn’t see it clearly, she thinks that’s when Alex grabbed Charles and pulled him back.
• Tylee says her mom told her to go outside with JJ, so she ran out of the house. JJ was already in the front seat of the car, and Tylee opened the door and stood there with him. A short time later, Lori came outside and they left.
• When asked if Lori explained anything to her afterward, Tylee says no. She heard a noise inside the house that she now recognizes as a gunshot, but at the time she assumed it was the bat hitting the floor.
• The officer circles back to why Tylee raised the bat. She says Charles was getting too close to Lori and that’s why she held the bat out—because she thought Charles might hit her mom. Tylee says that although their home life had been mostly calm, there had been violent moments in the past when she was scared Charles might hit Lori. She adds that she and Charles never got along and that she’s been scared during past fights with him.
• The officer asks her to describe what happened when Charles grabbed the bat. Tylee says she had a two-handed grip on it, and Charles told her she would go to jail if she hit him. She didn’t respond. When Charles took the bat, Tylee lunged slightly, lost her footing, and fell. Lori told her to “just let go,” and Tylee slipped and landed on her side. After that, Lori told her to go outside, so she ran.
• When asked what Charles did with the bat after she fell, Tylee says she wasn’t looking in that direction and didn’t see. She doesn’t remember seeing Alex physically pull Charles back but says it seemed like that’s what happened—she doubts Charles would have stepped back on his own.
• The officer asks if Tylee went back into the house after Lori came out. Tylee says yes—she re-entered through the garage door to get Lori’s purse from the closet so they would have her wallet. She didn’t hear or see anything inside the house when she went back in. When asked if she had already heard the loud noise (gunshot) before she went back in, Tylee confirms. She believes Lori was still inside when the noise happened, but the door opened almost immediately afterward.
• When asked how everyone was acting during the incident, Tylee says Charles looked “honestly like a crazy person.” He was screaming and his face was bright red. She says when he took the bat from her, she saw his face for a split second, and it was full of rage—she says “it didn’t even look like him.” It was the angriest she’d ever seen him.
• Tylee says Alex was calm—not completely calm, given the situation—but not yelling. He wasn’t saying much and seemed focused on protecting Lori. She reiterates that Charles was the only one yelling, and Lori was just responding. When asked what they were yelling about, Tylee says she doesn’t remember the words and apologizes, saying it was mostly just loud yelling she heard.

Inconsistencies and Suspicions:

• Cox said he shot Charles and immediately called 911, but records showed he waited over 43 minutes before making the call.
• No evidence suggested Cox performed CPR on Charles.
• Instead of calling 911, Lori took J.J. to Burger King.
• Charles’ cellphone was not found at the scene but was later turned over to police by Lori.
• GPS data from Charles’ phone confirmed Lori’s visit to Burger King.
• She later stopped at Walgreens before returning home.
• Alex Cox called 911, reporting that he had shot his brother-in-law in self-defense.
• He claimed he performed CPR, but first responders noted no evidence of resuscitation attempts.
• The delay of over 43 minutes before the 911 call raised suspicions.

July 12, 2019

Morning

• Property manager and a friend discover crime scene tape around the house Charles and Lori were renting.
• JP texts both Lori and Charles: “Are you OK?” Lori replies around 11 AM: “we are ok, ill explain later.”

Midday

• Lori calls her son, Colby, claiming Charles died of a heart attack.
• Colby goes to the house to comfort the family, hugs Tylee, and learns Charles was actually shot.
• Colby is shocked, curses at Lori, and demands answers. Lori offers no explanation for the initial lie but tells a story of an altercation that led to the shooting.
• Chad Daybell contacts Valley of the Sun Mortuary to ask about cremation and shipping Charles’ remains to Louisiana.

Afternoon

• Lori hosts a pool party at the same home. She is seen acting calm and cheerful, even as Charles’ body is being cremated and her children are grieving. Neighbors report a loud pool party at the Chandler home with music and people swimming.
• Zulema visits Lori poolside. Lori and Alex describe the shooting as self-defense during a fight involving a baseball bat.
• Lori claims 100,000 dark entities aided Charles.
• Alex tells Zulema he is okay because he “killed a zombie.”
• Zulema texts Julie Clement: “Hiplos is gone,” referencing the Book of Mormon.

4:36 PM

• Lori texts Charles’ sons but does not mention how he died. Message

6:54 PM

• After Lori refuses to provide details, Charles’ sons text again. Lori claims she is waiting to hear from the Medical Examiner. Message

July 13, 2019

• Charles Vallow’s autopsy performed:
• Death ruled homicide.
• Shot twice: once in the abdomen (likely while standing), once in the chest (downward trajectory, likely while on the ground).
• Fatal shot damaged the heart.
• No drugs or alcohol found in system.
• Findings contradict Alex Cox’s self-defense claim.

July 14, 2019

• Lori leaves a voicemail for Charles’ adult son, says: “It’s Lolo, I just wanted to talk to you and see how you’re doing.”
• Still offers no details. He returns the call; she doesn’t answer. Last contact.

July 15, 2019

• Lori travels to Houston; JJ and Tylee stay with Angela.
• Lori calls Charles’ life insurance company, learns she is no longer beneficiary and will not receive any money.

Mid-July 2019

• Lori emails school to request JJ’s return to his former academy with Ms. Nicole.

July 18, 2019

• Lori tells Chad Charles had changed his life insurance policy before they “got rid of him.”

Lori writes, “I just got a letter from the insurance company that I am not the beneficiary. It’s a spear thru my heart. Who do you think he changed it to? Brandon or possibly Kay?” 

Chad responds, “Wow. That’s terrible. There is no way to find out.”

Lori, “I might be able to check when I get his email on Sunday.”

July 20, 2019

• Lori’s credit card charged for Chad’s Allegiant Airlines flight from Provo to Arizona.

July 21, 2019

• 9:30 a.m.: Lori texts Chad: “Ned gave it all to Rhonda” (believed to mean Charles gave life insurance to Kay). Chad: “We will work hard on Rhonda when we are together.”
• 9:40 a.m.: Chad calls Lori a “goddess,” says they have “undeniable sexual chemistry.”
• 9:50 a.m.: Chad: “We will be in Hawaii soon.” Lori: “That is the plan!”

July 22, 2019

• Lori visits JJ’s school, claims Charles committed suicide “the week before.”
• Staff Google his name and discover he died in a family altercation on July 11.

July 23, 2019

• 9:55 a.m.: Lori: “Check JJ. Weird stuff happened. Check Tylee. She might be switched.” Chad: “Yes, she was switched.”

July 26, 2019. message from Chad to Lori

“I’m a grown-up version of Harry Potter, who has to live with the Dudleys in his little space under the stairs,” “Every few weeks I get to escape and have amazing adventures with my Goddess lover, but then I have to return to my place under the stairs, feeling trapped. But I sense permanent freedom is coming!”

July 29, 2020

• 10:08 a.m.: Chad: “Do you want me to cause pain yet to those two 3s you’re riding with?”  Lori: “Hold off until we arrive… But I’ll text you if they act up and we can zap them.”
  
• Lori texts Kay Woodcock, sends a photo of a “change of beneficiary” form listing herself. Writes: “Five kids and no money and his sister gets everything.” Last contact with Kay.

July 29, 2019

• Lori, Alex, and Melani travel to Oceanside, CA. Tylee and JJ not in photos.

July 30, 2019

• 10:45 a.m.: Chad: “Tammy is very close. Her percentage is at 3. JJ is at 2.” Lori: “Still hot for you.”

August 2019

• Chandler Police reopen the case due to new information.

August 5, 2019

• JJ begins school in Ms. Julia’s class. Told his dad is “traveling.” Shows sadness but says nothing about death.

August 6, 2019

• Venmo from Tylee’s account to Colby Ryan with a heart and two exclamation points.

August 7, 2019

• 11:00 a.m.: Alex sends photo of Chad by image of Jesus; Chad texts it back: “Two exalted beings.”

August 8, 2019

• 11:10 a.m.: Chad tells Lori: “The angels are angry you’re ignoring me…” Says her spiritual protection is gone unless she responds with thumbs up.

August 9, 2019

• Alex Cox takes out $21,000 loan for “medical reasons.”
• Lori lists JJ’s service dog, Bailey, for $2,500. Listing says owner (Charles) is deceased.

August 10, 2019

• Woodcocks FaceTime JJ; call lasts 35 seconds. JJ appears monitored; call ends abruptly.
• 11:21 a.m.: Lori: “Do you think there’s a plan to take the children?” Chad: “Yes, I saw it last night but it’s been taken from my mind.”
  

August 12, 2019

• Lori attends Social Security appointment, confirms benefits.
• Removes Tylee and JJ as beneficiaries of $2M life insurance policy; names Colby Ryan instead.

August 14, 2019

• Lori submits rental application for Rexburg townhouse, citing combined Social Security income.
• States move is for Tylee to attend BYU-Idaho (she never enrolls).
• Lori purchases wedding rings; order later canceled.

August 16, 2019

• Lori redirects Tylee’s Social Security benefits from her Chase account to Lori’s BBVA account.

August 17, 2019

• Budget van rented under Lori’s name.

August 20–25, 2019

• Lori travels to Idaho under the name “Lori Ryan.”

August 22, 2019

• Photos taken of Kennedy School in Rexburg.

August 30, 2019

• Lori, Tylee, and JJ visit Colby’s work. They say they’re moving the next day.
• Lori mentions a new job, gives no details. Tylee seems sad. (Colby Ryan interview)

August 31, 2019

• Lori’s property manager, JP, asked her to vacate the Chandler, AZ rental by this date, citing concerns about the circumstances surrounding Charles Vallow’s death on July 11. JP recalled receiving a text from Lori that day—“we are ok, I’ll explain later”—after he asked about the police presence at the home. He said neighbors reported a loud pool party at the house that same afternoon, with music playing and people swimming. JP also noted that Lori showed no signs of shock or grief in their conversations afterward, and that Alex Cox continued staying at the house for several days following the shooting.
• Lori moves out of Chandler home (at landlord’s request) and heads to Idaho.
• Woodcocks contact JJ’s school; school cannot release information.

September 1, 2019

• Lori, Tylee, JJ, and Alex arrive in Rexburg, Idaho.

September 3, 2019

• JJ enrolled at Kennedy Elementary by Lori.
• Lori tells Alex Cox the Wi-Fi name is “anti-laman” and password is “2manykids.” Later: “We are trying to eliminate them completely.” Alex: “Excellent.”

September 5, 2019

• Lori notifies AZ Department of Education that JJ isn’t returning.

September 8, 2019

• Last known photo of Tylee at Yellowstone.
• Chad and Tammy sign form increasing her life insurance to max amount.

September 9, 2019

• Chad texts Tammy about shooting a raccoon and burying it on their property.
• Alex Cox’s phone places him at the burial site later linked to Tylee’s remains.

September 12, 2019

• Lori searches for Charles Vallow’s tax return.

September 13–16, 2019

• Emails between Lori and Arizona DES regarding JJ.

September 14, 2019

• Photo of JJ at Bear World (Tylee not present).

September 22, 2019

• JJ last seen alive. Carried into home by Alex during podcast recording.
• Last known photo of JJ taken that evening.

September 23, 2019

• Photos of ammunition found in Lori’s iCloud.
• 9:55 AM: Alex Cox returns to Chad’s backyard (17 minutes).
• Gibb and Warwick don’t see JJ; Lori claims he was acting like a zombie.

September 24, 2019

• 1:20 p.m.: Babysitter texts Lori asking about JJ. Lori says JJ is with his grandparents.

October 1, 2019

• 2:32 pm – Lori signs a $53-per-month rental agreement for a 10×10 unit at Self Storage Plus in Rexburg. Oct 1 is the only time Lori visits the unit alone; She is driving a blue Nissan Rogue.
• Later CCTV shows Lori and a man (Possibly Alex) with her visiting the unit nine times in October and once in November

October 2, 2019

• 9:19 AM – Attempted murder of Brandon Boudreaux. Alex was parked near Brandon’s residence. Alex’s burner phone and Chad’s burner phone make contact multiple times between 9:19 AM – 9:25 AM
  
• Brandon Boudreaux is shot at in the driveway of his Gilbert, AZ home; A bullet narrowly misses Brandon Boudreaux and shatters the driver’s side window his Tesla. The shooter is driving a vehicle matching the description of Tylee’s Jeep. Brandon Boudreaux calls 911.
• 1:28 pm – Lori returns to her Rexburg storage unit with Chad in a white Ford F-150 that matches the description of AC’s truck

October 3, 2019

• Chandler PD learns of attempt on Brandon’s life. Police interview Melani who denies any knowledge of the shooting and could not explain the details of that day. She confirmed relationships with Alex and Lori but denied being close. She also did not want to share their phone numbers. Lori using the same computer used for the ring purchase searches for wedding dresses online.
  

October 4, 2019

• 1:35 p.m.: Lori to Chad: “We need to go on a real date.” Chad claims Tammy is now possessed by “Viola,” a level 3 demon.

October 7, 2019

• Alex Cox visited the Fremont County Sportsman’s Club on October 7, 8, 12, 13 and 15. The person who signed in was C QUINT. Note: Alex loved Captain Quint from the movie Jaws.

October 8, 2019

• Alex Cox conducts multiple internet searches, including terms related to “Grendel drop” (a type of bullet) and shooting through a Dodge Dakota. 6.5 “grendel drop from 100 yards to 200 yards” ” 6.5 grendel drop from 100 yards to 300 yards”

October 9, 2019  

• Alex Cox obtains a burner phone.
• Alex Cox attempts to shoot Tammy Daybell outside her home but fails. Tammy Daybell calls 911, reporting that a masked man shot at her with a paintball gun. She also posted about it on Facebook.
  
• Chad and Lori exchange text messages discussing Tammy being in “limbo” and allegedly possessed by a spirit named Viola. Alex traveled from Sportsman’s Warehouse to the vicinity of the Daybell residence.
  
• Alex searched for several different AR-15 uppers, muzzle energy of 6.5 grendel and frog togg sizing for pants.

October 10, 2019

• Alex made several searches about AR-15, using it in cold weather and how to use it. He also did a YouTube search on shooting an AR-15 at -30 degrees.

October 12, 2019

• Alex Cox conducts another internet searches, including terms related to “Grendel drop” (a type of bullet) and shooting through a Dodge Dakota. Daybells had a 2004 Dodge Dakota and Tammy drove the Dakota. The searches were in relation to what it would take to shoot through a vehicle.
  

October 16, 2019

• Tylee Ryan’s Venmo account showed a payment to her older half brother, Colby Ryan with “we love you” in the description field.

October 18, 2019

• Alex Cox was in a church parking lot approximately 2.5 miles from the Daybell residence on the night before Tammy Daybell’s death.

October 19, 2019

• Tammy Daybell dies under suspicious circumstances.
• Tammy is found dead by family members in her ID home at 202 N 1900 E, Rexburg (Salem), ID; A Fremont Co officer goes to the Salem home in response to a call about Tammy’s death. The Fremont Co Coroner Brenda Dye arrives at the home as well and examines the body. No autopsy is performed. Dye writes a death certificate. The coroner initially ruled the death “natural causes,” and decided Tammy didn’t need an autopsy, but police later determined her death is suspicious and exhume her on Dec 12th for autopsy.

October 20, 2019

• Chad sends Lori a message “percentage in body” ratings, then says “It is baby night. Come get me later.”

October 22, 2019 

• Tammy’s funeral is held in Utah, two days after her death. No autopsy was conducted.

October 23, 2019

• 2:00 p.m.: Lori to Chad: “Make sure Alex is still him… they’ll use him to get to us.” Chad: “I cleared all of Al’s weapons, curses and cords… filled him with malachite healing balm.”

October 23, 2019

• 2:00 p.m.: Lori to Chad: “Make sure Alex is still him… they’ll use him to get to us.” Chad: “I cleared all of Al’s weapons, curses and cords… filled him with malachite healing balm.”

October 24, 2019

• Chad moves out of the Salem, ID house he shared with Tammy and two of his adult kids. He told his kids he wanted to sell the house and the book publishing business he and Tammy had built since 2004, but they convinced him not to. He later says he has plans to go to Hawaii to edit a book.
• Lori traveled from Phoenix to Idaho.

October 28, 2019

• Alex Cox and Chad Daybell visit the storage unit removing several large, obviously heavy totes. This is the last visit to the storage unit
• The Gilberts (Chad Daybell neighbors) met the woman Chad was referring to—Lori Vallow. Alice described the encounter as awkward, noting that Chad and Lori were extremely affectionate, giggling and laughing together on the couch “They were more affectionate than I had ever seen Chad,” Alice testified. “My husband and I were embarrassed.”

November 5, 2019

• Lori and Chad marry less than a month after Tammy’s death.

November 7, 2019 – Lori and Chad, recently married, visited a home in Kauai with a room for rent. The homeowner, JM, recalled them saying God had led them there. She described them as “giddy, like two teenagers.” Chad filled out a rental application, claiming $30,000 monthly income and listing Lori as his wife and emergency contact.

November 12, 2019 – After reading Tammy Daybell’s obituary, JM became uneasy about how happy the couple had seemed. She texted Chad to ask about Tammy’s death. Chad replied that Tammy had passed peacefully and was now “helping our family on the other side of the veil.” JM followed up, asking about the coroner’s report and when he and Lori met. Chad then decided not to rent the room.

November 21, 2019 – Lori’s account or electronic device is logged into a classroom communication app from JJ’s former school, LIFE Academy in AZ, and Lori’s user account is shown as having viewed a post made by the school

• Chad Daybell met with his insurance agent, Ballard, to discuss different options for his policy. During the conversation, Chad hypothetically asked about adding a new spouse to the plan—without mentioning that he had already married Lori Vallow by this point on November 5 in Hawaii. Chad never mentioned JJ or Tylee, nor did he discuss adding anyone else to the policy.

November 26, 2019 – Rexburg Police attempt to conduct a welfare check on JJ, the adopted 7- year-old special needs son of Lori Vallow, at their residence at 565 Pioneer Road in Rexburg, ID. Welfare check was at the request of out of state family members who had not spoken to JJ since Sept. Chad and Lori were at the home and said JJ was staying with a family friend in Arizona. Investigators left but learned later that day that Joshua had not been staying with the friend.

November 27, 2019

• Lori and Chad leave Rexburg. Melanie Boudreaux confirms.
• JJ’s autism medication found in apartment; last filled in January 2019.

November 29, 2019

• Alex cox married Zulema Pastenes Records

December 6, 2019

• RPD learns from Melanie Gibb that Chad and Lori asked her to lie to police about JJ’s whereabouts. She refuses.

December 2019

• Alex Cox dies of natural causes (blood clots in lungs).

December 11, 2019

• Lori and Chad are named persons of interest in the disappearance of JJ and Tylee.
• Tammy Daybell body exhume for autopsy.

December 12, 2019

• 3:20 PM – Alex Cox is found unresponsive in an upstairs bathroom in Gilbert, AZ by Joseph Lopez, the 25-year-old son of Alex’s girlfriend, Zulema Pastenes. Lopez calls 911, saying Alex collapsed on the floor, which was covered in feces. He doesn’t know Alex’s last name or age, and is unaware that Alex had married his mother in Las Vegas on November 29. Zulema arrives just before EMTs and attempts CPR. Alex is pronounced dead later that day. The cause of death is not immediately known; officials say autopsy results may take up to three months.

December 20, 2019

• Official Press Release  Rexburg Police Department
  

December 20, 2019

• Rexburg PD released this info in Dec 30, 2019 press release stating: Lori told family members that Tylee died in 2017, a year before Tylee’s dad Joseph Ryan died in 2018, and Chad told family members that Lori had no minor children. Both statements are untrue.
  

December 21, 2019

• Police release photos of Lori and Chad, calling them persons of interest.

December 22, 2019

• Brandon Boudreaux (BB), Lori’s former nephew by marriage, tells Fox10 Phoenix that Lori changed drastically after meeting Chad Daybell and pleads for the children’s safe return: “They’re both just innocent and they didn’t deserve to be involved in any of this.”

December 23, 2019

• BB speaks publicly again, alleging Lori and Chad are part of a cult, which his ex-wife Melani has joined. He reveals there was an attempt on his life and says he went into hiding with his children. “Someone’s shooting at me… I need to hit the gas and get out of here.”
• Attorney Sean Bartholick issues a statement for Chad and Lori Daybell: “Chad Daybell was a loving husband… Lori Daybell is a devoted mother… We look forward to addressing the allegations once they have moved beyond speculation and rumor.”
  

December 24, 2019 – Colby Ryan (CR), Lori’s oldest son, posts a YouTube video about the case, expressing heartbreak and confusion: “Every week or two weeks has been something — new news that just sinks your heart through your stomach… I didn’t know there was a whole other family involved.”

December 30, 2019 – The Rexburg Police Department releases a statement:
“We know that the children are not with Lori and Chad Daybell, and we also have information indicating that Lori knows either the location of the children or what has happened to them,” the statement reads. “Despite having this knowledge, she has refused to work with law enforcement to help us resolve this matter. It is astonishing that rather than work with law enforcement to help us locate her own children, Lori Vallow has chosen instead to leave the state with her new husband.” Rexburg Police Department

January 5, 2020 – Lori’s former property manager, JP, posts on Facebook that he asked Lori to vacate the Chandler, AZ rental by August 31, 2019, disturbed by the events surrounding Charles Vallow’s death there on July 11. JP recalls Lori’s text to him that day—“we are ok, I’ll explain later”—after he asked why police were at the house. He also confirms that neighbors reported a loud pool party with music and swimming the same day Charles was killed. JP adds that Lori showed no signs of grief in their conversations afterward and noted that Alex Cox continued staying at the house for days following the shooting.

Posthumous Developments

• June 2020 – JJ and Tylee’s bodies are found on Chad’s property.
• June 29, 2021: Lori indicted for conspiracy to commit murder in Charles’ death. Prosecutors decline to indict Chad Daybell, citing lack of evidence for conviction.
  
• September 30, 2021: Death ruled homicide by multiple gunshot wounds.
• March 2025: Lori scheduled to stand trial in Arizona for conspiring with Alex Cox to murder Charles.

Charles Vallow’s death marked the beginning of a disturbing series of deaths surrounding Lori Vallow, including her children and Tammy Daybell.

2019

• July 11, 2019 – Charles Vallow, Lori Vallow’s estranged husband, is shot and killed by her brother, Alex Cox, in Chandler, Arizona. Cox claims self-defense. 
• October 2, 2019: Brandon Boudreaux, the ex-husband of Lori’s niece, Melani Boudreaux, survives a shooting attempt in Gilbert, Arizona. Investigators begin to explore connections between this incident and the events surrounding Charles’s death.
• December 12, 2019 – Alex Cox died suddenly from natural causes (blood clots in lungs), complicating the case.

2020

• January 2020 – Lori Arrested in Hawaii: She is arrested on charges related to the disappearance of Tylee & J.J. and later extradited to Idaho.
• June 2020 – Children’s Bodies Found: J.J. and Tylee’s remains are found buried on Chad Daybell’s property in Idaho.
• August 2020 – Chandler Police Reopen Charles Vallow’s Case: Investigators re-examine evidence from the July 2019 shooting.

2021

• June 29, 2021 – Lori Vallow is indicted in Arizona on charges of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder in connection with Charles Vallow’s death.
• September 30, 2021 – The Maricopa County Medical Examiner releases a report officially ruling Charles Vallow’s death as a homicide resulting from multiple gunshot wounds.
• October 2021 – Chandler Police Release Extensive Case Files: Over 1,100 pages of documents, body camera footage, and interviews are made public.
• November 2021 – Murder Charges Recommended Against Lori: Chandler Police recommend charges against Lori for Charles’ premeditated murder.

2022

• April 2022 – Arizona prosecutors confirm they will wait to proceed with charges against Vallow Daybell until her Idaho trial concludes.
• February 24, 2022 – a grand jury indicted Lori for conspiracy to commit the murder of Brandon Boudreaux

2023

• March 2, 2023 – District Judge Steven Boyce rules Lori and Chad’s cases will be severed, meaning there will be two trials, after new evidence is submitted regarding DNA testing. Lori’s trial is scheduled to begin April 3, 2023
• May 12, 2023 – Lori Vallow is convicted in Idaho for the murders of her children, Tylee Ryan and Joshua “J.J.” Vallow, and conspiracy in the murder of Tammy Daybell.
• May, 2023 – Arizona officials release information that a grand jury indicted Lori on Feb. 24, 2022 for conspiracy to commit the murder of Brandon Boudreaux
• July 31, 2023 – She is sentenced to life in prison without parole in Idaho.
• August 2023 – Extradited to Arizona: Lori is moved to Arizona to face charges for Charles Vallow’s murder.
• September, 2023 Lori files an appeal and asks the Idaho Supreme Court to examine her case, guilty verdict and sentence.
• October, 2023 Judge Boyce orders JJ’s remains to be turned over to his family.
• November 29, 2023, Maricopa County Sheriff deputies transport Lori from the Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center to the Maricopa County Jail in Arizona where she is processed and booked. During a press conference, the sheriff says once Lori’s case is over in Arizona, she will return to Idaho.
• December 2023 Tylee’s remains are released.
• December 7, 2023 – Lori pleads not guilty to all Arizona charges
  

2024

• February 28, 2024 – Vallow Daybell is extradited from Idaho to Arizona to face conspiracy charges in Charles Vallow’s murder.
• John Prior, Chad’s attorney, files a motion to withdraw from the case. Judge Boyce denies it.
• March 11, 2024 – Judge Justin Beresky allows a single pool camera to cover the trial, rejecting Vallow Daybell’s request to ban cameras.
• March 21, 2024 – Chad Daybell is moved to the Ada County Jail in Boise
  
• March 31, 2024 – Jury selection for the Arizona trial is scheduled to begin.
• April 7, 2024 – Opening statements in the trial are expected to begin.

2025

March 19, 2025

• Zachary Cox contacted the State after being interviewed by Lori Vallow’s investigator, Jeff White. Zachary Cox stated that he resided with Lori Vallow and Charles Vallow when they lived in a home in Gilbert, AZ. Zachary Cox never lived at 5531 S. Four Peaks Place in Chandler. Zachary Cox appears to have some knowledge of incidents that occurred in January 2019 between the victim, Charles Vallow, and Lori Vallow. Zachary Cox said he has not been subpoenaed and does not want to testify.

March 24, 2025

• Lori Vallow provided the state with telephone numbers for Vaisia Itaiahau, Gabriel Bonilla, and Joseph Pongratz. The Lori Vallow investigator indicated that he has been unable to locate or get a phone number for Ashlyn Rynd.

March 26, 2025

• Lonnie Dworkin began downloading data from Charles Vallow’s cell phone, which defense investigator Jeff White had given him.

March 27, 2025

The State conducted a telephonic interview with defense investigator Jeff White.

• White confirmed he interviewed Janis Cox, Summer Shiflet, and Zachary Cox.
• He attempted to contact Nate Eaton, leaving messages, but received no response.
• Barry Cox refused to speak with him.
• White visited Joseph Pongratz’s home and business, leaving messages, but received no response.
• He also left messages for Gabriel Bonilla, who has not responded.
• White provided Charles Vallow’s phone to Lonnie Dworkin for analysis.

The State conducted telephonic interviews with Janis Cox and Summer Shiflet.

• Both witnesses stated they had not been served with subpoenas and did not wish to testify.
• The State attempted to contact Vaisia Itaiahau, Gabriel Bonilla, and Joseph Pongratz by phone.
• Messages were left requesting a return call.
• None of the individuals had returned the calls as of that date.

March 28, 2025 

• The State filed a Supplemental Motion to Preclude Defense Witnesses and Experts.
• Lonnie Dworkin was scheduled to begin working on the analysis of Charles Vallow’s phone.

March 31, 2025 

• The trial for Charles Vallow’s murder conspiracy charge is officially set to begin in Maricopa County, Arizona.

April 1, 2025 

• The jury in Lori Vallow Daybell’s murder conspiracy trial has been seated. There are 13 men and three women on this jury, and four will be alternate jurors. 

April 7, 2025—Opening arguments begin on Monday at 10:30 a.m. The trial will last until May 15 at the latest. 

This trial will address Vallow Daybell’s alleged role in planning Charles Vallow’s death, adding another chapter to the high-profile case.

Witnesses to Testify

• Nancy Jo Hancock is another witness who is the last person to see Charles alive before he went to Lori’s home. She told him to tell Lori he changed the beneficiary on his life insurance policy.
• Vaisia Itaiahau – Tylee Ryan’s best friend. The state and the defense have been unable to reach her.
• Ashlyn Rynd, Tylee’s best friend, testified during the murder trial of Chad Daybell. 
• Christina Atwood has information regarding what Lori allegedly told her about Charles Vallow being possessed.
• Zachary Cox is on the list but has not been subpoenaed. Zachary Cox does not want to testify and never lived at the Chandler home where Charles Vallow was killed.
• Nate Eaton – Reporter. The judge excluded Nate from being called as a witness. 
• Kay Woodcock is Charles’s sister. She was made the new beneficiary of his policy and Charles’s confidant. She has information from Charles on his issues with Lori.
• Gabriel Bonilla was Lori and Charles’ LDS bishop.
• Matthew Ballard, an attorney with the LDS Church, had not been served with a subpoena.
• Summer Shiflet, Lori Vallow’s sister, doesn’t want to testify.
• Janis Cox is Lori Vallow’s mom. She stated that she Didn’t want to testify.
• Barry Cox Vallow Daybell’s investigator has spoken with the Cox family; Barry Cox refused to testify.
• Joseph Pongratz, the landlord of the Vallow’s home in Chandler – The Defense could not reach him.
• Adam Cox – Lori Vallow’s brother. 
• Serena Sharpe – Sarena Sharpe was friends with Lori and was mentioned by Melanie Gibb and Zulema Pastenes during their trial testimony as being involved in the group’s castings.

April 22, 2025

Lori Vallow Daybell found guilty of conspiring to murder her estranged husband

An Arizona jury has found Lori Vallow Daybell guilty of conspiracy to commit the murder of her estranged husband, Charles Vallow—marking another conviction that could result in a life sentence. Vallow Daybell, who espoused extremist doomsday beliefs, was previously convicted in Idaho for the murders of her two youngest children and a romantic rival.

Prosecutors argued that she conspired with her brother, Alex Cox, in orchestrating the July 2019 fatal shooting of Charles Vallow at her home in Chandler, a suburb of Phoenix. They said her motive was to collect on Charles’s life insurance policy and to clear the way to marry her then-boyfriend, Chad Daybell—an Idaho author known for his apocalyptic religious novels.

Cox, who told police he shot Vallow in self-defense, died five months later from a pulmonary embolism. However, the credibility of his self-defense claim has since come under scrutiny.

A hearing was held in Lori Vallow Daybell’s Arizona case on Tuesday morning March 11, 2025. Daybell argued a series of motions as prosecutors and the judge responded.

On March 11, 2025, Lori Vallow Daybell appeared in a Maricopa County Superior Court pretrial hearing concerning her upcoming trial for conspiracy to commit murder in the death of her former husband, Charles Vallow. ​

Key Outcomes of the Hearing:

• Camera Access in the Courtroom: Judge Justin Beresky ruled that a single pool camera would be permitted to cover the trial, despite Vallow Daybell’s objections. She expressed concerns about cameras focusing solely on her, referencing past experiences where the camera remained on her face throughout proceedings. The judge assured that specific guidelines would be established to ensure balanced coverage, including a potential broadcast delay and restrictions during jury selection.
• Jury Selection Process: The court outlined that approximately 200 potential jurors would receive electronic questionnaires. Responses will be reviewed to dismiss those unqualified, with further in-person questioning scheduled for early April. The final jury is expected to consist of 12 jurors and 3-4 alternates. ​
• Trial Schedule: Jury selection is set to commence on March 31, with opening statements tentatively scheduled for April 7. The trial is anticipated to last up to five weeks. ​
• Admissibility of Statements: Discussions addressed the inclusion of statements made by Alex Cox, Vallow Daybell’s deceased brother, who was involved in Charles Vallow’s death. While the judge indicated that Cox’s on-scene statements might be admissible, he ruled against allowing statements from Tylee Ryan, Vallow Daybell’s late daughter. ​
• Combining Trials: Vallow Daybell faces an additional charge of attempted murder related to a shooting involving her niece’s ex-husband, Brandon Boudreaux, in October 2019. She proposed combining this charge with the current trial to uphold her right to a speedy trial. Prosecutors opposed this, noting that defendants typically prefer separate trials to prevent jurors from being influenced by multiple charges. Judge Beresky deferred the decision on combining the trials to a subsequent hearing scheduled for March 18.

April 7, 2025 – DAY 1

Theme: First Responders and Initial Crime Scene Observations

Witness 1: Sgt. Irwin Wierzbicki (Chandler Police Department)

• One of the first officers to arrive at the scene on July 11, 2019.
• Body-worn camera footage showed him entering the home where Charles Vallow lay on his back in the living room.
• Described Alex Cox as calm, cooperative, and “emotionally flat” when claiming self-defense.
• Noted Lori Vallow arriving during the investigation; her demeanor was described as casual, even cheerful, while Charles’s body was still inside.
• Testified that Lori never asked to see Charles or expressed shock or grief.

Witness 2: Robert Krautheim (Retired Chandler Police Officer)

• Backed up Wierzbicki’s description of the scene and Alex Cox’s statement.
• Stated Alex said Charles “came at him” with a bat, prompting him to shoot.
• Also noted Lori Vallow’s lack of emotional response.
• Bodycam footage showed Lori making small talk and asking for her purse before leaving the scene with Tylee and J.J.

April 8, 2025 – DAY 2

Scene Evidence and Forensic Observations

Witness 3: Scott Cowden (Chandler Firefighter/EMT)

• Part of the team dispatched to the scene after Charles was shot.
• Observed that Charles had no signs of life upon arrival.
• Testified that blood pooling and lividity suggested Charles had been dead for longer than claimed by Alex.

Witness 4: Kent Keller (Retired Chandler Fire Captain)

• Supported Cowden’s account.
• Described the positioning of Charles’s body, noting he was lying flat with minimal blood splatter, which raised doubts about a dynamic struggle.
• Indicated that the timeline presented by Alex didn’t fully align with medical observations.

Witness 5: Daniel Coons (Retired Chandler Police Detective)

• Crime scene investigator assigned to the shooting.
• Said Charles’s phone was missing and never recovered.
• No defensive wounds on Alex Cox; no signs of forced entry or struggle.
• A bat was found in the home, but its placement seemed staged.
• Noted Lori’s lack of cooperation post-shooting and failure to notify family.

April 9, 2025 – DAY 3

Personal Relationships and Behavior Leading Up to the Shooting

Witness 6: Nancy Jo Hancock (Friend of Charles Vallow)

• Recently began dating Charles before his death.
• Testified she was shocked by his sudden death and only learned about it through media reports days later.
• Described Charles as worried about Lori’s mental health and increasingly concerned for his own safety and that of the children.
• Famous Quote: Don’t Flatter Yourself 

Witness 7: Christina Atwood (Former Friend of Lori Vallow)

• Knew Lori through their church and friendship circles in Arizona.
• Noted Lori had become increasingly obsessed with religious visions and “light/dark” spiritual ratings.
• Claimed Lori once said Charles had been “taken over by a dark spirit” and was no longer “Charles.”
• Stated that Lori began isolating herself from friends and community after meeting Chad Daybell.

April 10, 2025 – DAY 4

Family Intervention Plans, Religious Beliefs, Forensic Details, and Emotional Impact

Witness 8: Adam Cox (Lori’s Older Brother)

• Testified that he and Charles were in the early stages of planning an intervention for Lori over her radical religious beliefs.
• Said Lori had told family members she was a “goddess” and chosen to lead 144,000 to salvation.
• Expressed guilt and sadness that the intervention never happened.
• Believes Lori was directly involved in planning Charles’s death with Alex Cox.

Witness 9: Sarena Sharp (Former Church Friend of Lori)

• Described Lori’s increasing belief in dark spirits, portals, and multiple lives.
• Testified that Lori once claimed Charles was already dead and had been replaced by a demonic spirit named “Ned Schneider.”
• Reinforced the pattern of Lori using religious rhetoric to justify withdrawal from Charles and others.

Witness 10: William McDonald (Retired Chandler Police Detective)

• Conducted follow-up interviews and reviewed the scene days later.
• Noted that no blood was found on Alex Cox’s clothing, despite claiming close contact during a violent struggle.
• Confirmed missing phone records and other inconsistencies in Alex’s timeline.

Witness 11: Marrisa Francisco (Chandler Forensic Scientist)

• Analyzed blood spatter and scene evidence.
• Testified there were no high-velocity blood patterns typically associated with defensive gunfire.
• Said no gunshot residue was found on Charles’s hands.
• Suggested Charles may not have been holding or swinging a bat at the time of the shooting.

Witness 12: Kay Woodcock (Sister of Charles Vallow)

• Broke down in tears multiple times during testimony.
• Spoke of Charles’s concern for J.J. and fears over Lori’s behavior.
• Described Charles as a loving father and brother who was trying to protect his son.
• Highlighted Lori’s indifference following Charles’s death, including the lack of a memorial service or proper notification to the family.

April 14, 2025 – Day 5

The judge discussed the scheduling of the related Brandon Boudreaux trial. Remote juror questionnaires will be sent out the week of May 19, with a cutoff date of May 23. Parties will meet on May 29 at 1:30 PM, and walk-in jurors will be brought in for voir dire on May 30, 2025.

• Boudreaux trial: The trial is scheduled to run from June 2-6, June 9-13 (until noon), with a break the following week, resuming June 23-25 and June 30-July 3.
• Juror Pool Size: The judge suggests an initial pool of 300 jurors for the Boudreaux trial due to potential publicity issues. Both Treena Kay and Lori agree. The jury for the current trial is brought into the courtroom.

Witness 1: Dr. Derek Baumgarner (Medical Examiner) – Performed Charles Vallow’s autopsy.

Key Testimony:

• Cause of death: 2 gunshot wounds; one likely inflicted while Charles was lying on the ground (shored exit wound).
• Gunshot trajectories:
• First shot: front to back, right to left, slightly downward – penetrated heart.
• Second shot: abdominal, exited through left shoulder – non-fatal but serious.
• Time of survival post-shooting: seconds to a few minutes.
• Abrasions on knees/hands indicated possible fall or struggle.
• Toxicology: no drugs/alcohol in Charles’ system.

Lori Vallow Cross:

• Asked about abrasions, if Charles was falling.
• Pushed a theory of scuffle prior to shots.
• Asked about clothing, possible bamboo material causing wound patterns.
• shoulder. 

Witness 2: Mark Saari (SSA Inspector General)

Investigated fraudulent Social Security claims made by Lori.

Key Testimony:

• Tylee Ryan received $1,859/month in survivor benefits.
• JJ Vallow received $1,951/month, plus backpay. Lori also received benefits as JJ’s mother-in-care.
• Lori falsely claimed to be still married to Charles in August 2019 appointment, after his death, despite remarrying Chad Daybell in Nov 2019.
• Lori never reported her remarriage, which would’ve ended her eligibility.

Lori Vallow Cross:

• Suggested SSA employee may have entered incorrect benefit category.
• Claimed she misunderstood instructions, implying she may have been misled.
• Asked if benefits can be saved for college (Saari said yes, contradicting Lori’s claim).

Witness 3: Jeff Moberg (Firearm Forensic Expert – DPS)  Examined weapon used in Charles’ killing.

• Gun: Springfield XDM .45 caliber semi-auto.
• Moberg confirmed casings found at the scene were fired from this gun.
• Test-fired in water tank; patterns and marks matched casings from the scene.
• Casings eject unpredictably, but they do not typically land in the same spot.

Lori Vallow Cross:

• Asked about report length, how casings were caught.
• Questioned if casings always end up in the same area (Moberg: no).

Witness 4: Det. Cassandra Ynclan (Chandler PD – Homicide) – Conducted interviews with Lori and Tylee on July 11, 2019.

Key Testimony:

• Lori was nonchalant and emotionless when told Charles was dead.
• Lori and Tylee were voluntarily interviewed.
• Lori chatted “like any other day” on return to the house.
• Tylee gave Charles’ phone to Ynclan; PIN was 0000.
• Lori never tried to call 911. Had multiple phones and Charles’ phone.
• Ynclan emphasized Lori initiated the argument by withholding the phone.
• Lori said she invited Alex over prior to Charles’ visit.

Lori Vallow Cross:

• Lori Vallow implied SSA-like objection to limited interview clips; judge overruled.
• Asked about Tylee being alone in interview room, lack of consent.
• Claimed to worry for Tylee’s medication.
• Objected to characterization of her demeanor.

4:35–4:39 p.m. – Cell Phone Extraction Issue Raised

• Lori claimed state gave her a flash drive Friday that won’t open.
• Expert is out of town; Investigator Jeff White spent 4 hours trying with old Cellebrite version.
• Judge said issue won’t affect trial due to late disclosure.
• Suggested Lori consult her expert, Mr. Dworkin, and try resolving it tonight.