Podcast Summary: "I Solved the 'Doomsday Mum' Murders"

Introduction

In the July 13, 2025 episode of What It Was Like, hosted by Julian Morgans from Superreal, listeners are taken through the harrowing true-crime case of Laurie Velo and Chad Daybell, a couple implicated in the brutal murders of their two children. This episode delves deep into the investigation led by Lieutenant Ray Homosillo of the Rexburg Police Department in Idaho, providing an intimate portrayal of the events, the emotional toll on those involved, and the ultimate pursuit of justice.

Background of the Case

Julian Morgans sets the stage by introducing Laurie Velo and Chad Daybell, a couple whose relationship spiraled into darkness amid extremist religious beliefs and financial motives. Chad, a former Mormon with apocalyptic ideologies, authored several books propagating his warped worldview. Laurie, appearing as a typical American woman on the surface, concealed a tumultuous personal history marked by multiple marriages and the tragic deaths of her ex-husbands.

Julian Morgans (02:02): "This is a case that's just finished up in the courts, but it's been unfolding for years. It really kicked off in 2019."

The Disappearances

The narrative focuses primarily on the mysterious disappearances of Laurie’s two children: 16-year-old Tyler Ryan and 7-year-old JJ Velo, both from previous relationships. These disappearances thrust Laurie and Chad into the national spotlight, raising suspicions and igniting a complex investigation involving cults, religious extremism, and potential mental illness.

Julian Morgans (02:21): "Why would anyone hurt their own kids? And really specifically, how could a mother hurt her own children?"

Investigation Begins

Lieutenant Ray Homosillo recounts the initial stages of the investigation in November 2019, starting with a welfare check for 7-year-old JJ. Early interactions with Laurie and Chad raised red flags due to their evasive and deceitful behavior.

Ray Homosillo (09:57): "We knew Chad was an author. We knew those things. But I didn't really know the in-depth belief system at that point."

Escalation and Media Attention

As investigations progressed, the disappearance of Tyler additional intensified the case. The couple's flight to Hawaii to evade authorities and subsequent lack of cooperation with law enforcement heightened concerns about the children's safety.

Ray Homosillo (17:14): "At that point, really, I mean, those questions are going through your head. But at that point, I really wasn't too concerned, like thinking the worst until they didn't produce them."

The media frenzy that ensued brought immense pressure to the investigation, with national attention making every lead and interaction scrutinized.

Ray Homosillo (35:30): "As soon as we released that press release, it did catch. It just made this story so much more interesting."

Breakthrough and Discovery

A pivotal moment occurred during a warrant service in Hawaii, where subtle changes in Chad's behavior signaled a breakthrough. Lieutenant Homosillo observed Chad’s nervousness and frantic actions near a pond, leading the team to uncover the remains of JJ buried under a tree in their backyard.

Ray Homosillo (42:38): "And then as we lifted the topsoil, you could smell the decomposition. So we knew something was there."

The discovery of JJ's body was a somber and emotional moment for the team, underscoring the brutal nature of the crime.

Tylee's Remains and Further Horrors

The investigation didn't end with JJ. The team later uncovered the dismembered and burned remains of Tyler, buried in a pet cemetery. The gruesome discovery highlighted the depths of Laurie and Chad's depravity.

Ray Homosillo (57:37): "Charred flesh and bone. We started digging... we could only dig for a few minutes at a time because the smell was so bad."

Motive and Trial

The primary motive behind the murders was financial gain. Laurie and Chad were receiving substantial Social Security benefits from the deceased fathers of their children. Eliminating the children ensured the continuation of these benefits, facilitating their escape to a more carefree life in Hawaii.

Ray Homosillo (55:32): "It was about money... Lori was getting in these benefits from Social Security. And the kids were just in the way."

The subsequent trials resulted in severe consequences for both Laurie and Chad. Laurie received five life sentences for multiple counts of murder and fraud, while Chad was sentenced to death, awaiting his appeals.

Ray Homosillo (59:53): "In June of 2024, Chad was convicted of five death sentences and an insurance fraud. And so he is currently in Boise on death row awaiting his appeals and death sentence."

Reflections on Humanity and Justice

Lieutenant Homosillo shares his profound reflections on humanity, emphasizing the positive aspects witnessed during the investigation despite the darkness of the crimes. He highlights the community's support, the collaborative efforts of various law enforcement agencies, and the enduring bonds formed through the pursuit of justice.

Ray Homosillo (62:32): "I think I've gained more of a positive perspective of humanity through this experience... there's more good in this world than bad."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Homosillo expressing pride in the law enforcement team's dedication and resilience throughout the investigation. The case of Laurie Velo and Chad Daybell serves as a stark reminder of the extremes of human depravity and the relentless pursuit of justice by those sworn to uphold it.

Ray Homosillo (65:39): "It was a huge team effort."

Key Takeaways

• Complex Motivations: The murders were driven primarily by financial gain, with religious extremism used as a veneer to justify horrific actions.

• Law Enforcement Dedication: The multi-agency collaboration and unwavering commitment of the police force were pivotal in solving the case.

• Humanity Amidst Darkness: Despite encountering profound evil, the community's support and the law enforcement's unity offered a glimmer of hope and reaffirmed faith in humanity.

Notable Quotes

• Julian Morgans (02:02): "This is a case that's just finished up in the courts, but it's been unfolding for years."

• Ray Homosillo (35:30): "As soon as we released that press release, it did catch... it just made this story so much more interesting."

• Ray Homosillo (62:32): "I think I've gained more of a positive perspective of humanity through this experience."

Final Thoughts

"I Solved the 'Doomsday Mum' Murders" offers a gripping and emotionally charged exploration of one of America's most disturbing true-crime cases. Through the lens of Lieutenant Homosillo, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in unraveling such heinous crimes, the psychological toll on those involved, and the triumph of justice over unimaginable evil.