Day 5: Live Updates from the Lori Vallow Daybell Murder Conspiracy Trial

PHOENIX — The trial of Lori Vallow Daybell enters its second week on Monday as jury proceedings resume in this high-profile murder conspiracy case. Vallow Daybell, who is representing herself, faces charges connected to the death of her former husband, Charles Vallow, and has pleaded not guilty.

In a dramatic opening week, testimony from a range of witnesses revealed unsettling details, including references to dark spirits influencing perceived motives. Notable among the witnesses were Vallow Daybell’s brother and Charles Vallow’s sister, who emotionally recounted her brother’s concerns for his safety before his untimely death.

As the trial progresses into its fifth day, the state has called its 12th witness, Dr. Derek Bumgarner, the medical examiner who performed Charles Vallow’s autopsy. Court proceedings began with Vallow Daybell, dressed in a blue blazer, in attendance, as the judge addressed motions filed regarding subpoenas linked to her case.

Outside the courtroom, public interest remains high, with crowds forming as media and onlookers are granted access to the proceedings. Observers suggest a full house is expected as the narrative unfolds.

To provide context, Charles Vallow was shot dead in Chandler during the summer of 2019. His death initiated a series of tragic events involving several individuals connected to Vallow Daybell. She has previously been convicted in Idaho for the murders of her children, Tylee and JJ, as well as for her role in the death of Tammy Daybell, the first wife of her current husband, Chad Daybell, who was also convicted in Idaho for these crimes and has received a death sentence.

After her convictions in Idaho, Vallow Daybell was extradited to Arizona in 2023. Complicating matters further, her brother, Alex Cox, who allegedly conspired with her, cannot be held accountable due to his passing in December 2019 before formal charges were initiated.