On August 19, Vanessa Bryant delivered a gut-wrenching testimony detailing the emotional trauma she inherited after the mishandling of Kobe Bryant’s helicopter crash photos. However, one of the most heartbreaking moments of the hearing was when Vanessa accused the department of “violating” Gianna “Gigi” Bryant’s privacy. According to an on-site Nicki Swift reporter, Vanessa revealed the 13-year-old’s body was removed on “Day 2” of the crash — with Kobe’s being taken on “Day 1”.
In between sobs, Vanessa said due to the location of Gigi’s body, she believes individuals had to “go out of their way” to “violate” her privacy, potentially moving her remains. As confirmed by Fire Capt. Tony Imbrenda’s August 15 testimony, the victims’ larger body parts were covered with white sheets, so taking a photograph would require lifting it up. “[They] took advantage of the fact that her daddy couldn’t protect her because he was at the morgue,” she tearfully told the court.
When asked how she copes with the horrific circumstances, Vanessa revealed she says a “extra special prayer for Kobe and Gigi” every night alongside therapy –- which she said at times can be “completely draining.” Although she has found ways to navigate her emotional distress, Vanessa expressed her disbelief that law enforcement didn’t have “more compassion and respect” for her family’s privacy.
