Why Did Brian Laundrie Fly Back To Florida Without Gabby Petito? Family's Attorney Reveals Reason

Brian Laundrie flew alone to Florida during his cross-country trip with Gabby Petito in August, his family attorney has confirmed.

The statement comes a day after Brian's sister, Cassie, said her brother returned home on Aug. 17, five days after police in Moab, Utah, separated the couple based on a report that the man hit Petito during the trip.

"Brian flew home to Tampa from SLC on Aug. 17 and returned to SLC on Aug. 23 to rejoin Gabby. To my knowledge, Brian and Gabby paid for the flights as they were sharing expenses. Brian flew home to obtain some items and empty and close the storage unit to save money as they contemplated extending the road trip," Steven Bertolino said.

However, he did not explain what happened after Aug. 23, reported FOX News.

Cassie said in an earlier interview that Brian never mentioned the fight when she met him on Sept. 6 and that his behavior was normal.

Brian returned home after the trip alone on Sept. 1 in Petito's white van. Petito was reported missing on Sept. 11.

Bertolino also clarified that Brian's family last saw him on Sept. 13 and not on Sept. 14 as he previously mentioned.

"The Laundries were basing the date Brian left on their recollection of certain events. Upon further communication with the FBI and confirmation of the Mustang being at the Laundrie residence on Wednesday, Sept. 15, we now believe the day Brian left to hike in the preserve was Monday, Sept. 13," Bertolino told Fox News on Tuesday.

When investigators visited the Laundries' home in North Port on Sept. 17, his parents, Chris and Roberta, told them they hadn't seen their son since Sept. 14.

As the manhunt for Brian continues, the FBI has requested the public to contact them if they have any details about his whereabouts. Relevant information can be submitted to the FBI here or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or 303-629-7171. Photos and videos can be uploaded on the website http://fbi.gov/petito.