Jury Selection for ‘Doomsday Mom’ Postponed to Monday

PHOENIX — The trial of Lori Vallow Daybell, dubbed the “Doomsday Mom,” faced a setback as jury selection was postponed. The judge, citing “unforeseen circumstances,” declared that the process, initially expected to conclude on Friday, would continue until Monday.

Daybell is charged with conspiracy to murder her niece’s ex-husband, Brandon Boudreaux. In October 2019, Boudreaux was targeted in a shooting outside his home in Gilbert; fortunately, he was unharmed, although his vehicle sustained damage from a bullet.

During the hearing, the judge expressed regret over the delay, remarking that “it’s not anyone’s fault.” Sources suggest that Vallow Daybell may have felt ill, although this is unconfirmed. Following the release of potential jurors, the judge advised Vallow Daybell to inform her team of any potential issues regarding attendance on Monday, noting that jail conditions might impact her ability to appear.

In 2023, Vallow Daybell was convicted in Idaho for the murders of her children, Tylee and JJ, alongside her former husband Charles Vallow. Additionally, she was implicated in the death of Tammy Daybell, her current husband’s first wife. Her husband, Chad Daybell, was also convicted and sentenced to death for his involvement in that case.

Opening statements for the trial were originally scheduled for Monday. Jury selection will resume in the morning, with the expectation to finalize twelve jurors and four alternates. If a jury is seated by 3 p.m., the judge indicated that he anticipates the trial to proceed with opening statements on the same day. The proceedings are expected to last approximately two weeks.