Case Summary
Bryan Kohberger, a criminology PhD student, stabbed four University of Idaho students to death in their off-campus home in the early morning hours of November 13, 2022. The case generated enormous media and social media attention. Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvania weeks later, tried, and sentenced. Spinoff coverage — podcasts, docudramas, TikTok deep dives — continues at full intensity.
Key Facts
Weapon
Ka-Bar style hunting knife (sheath left at scene)
Charges
First-degree murder (4 counts), Burglary
Evidence
DNA on knife sheath, cell phone data, white Hyundai Elantra surveillance footage
Sentenced
Convicted and sentenced
Occupation
PhD student, Washington State University criminology program
Jurisdiction
Latah County, Idaho
Case Timeline
Nov 13, 2022
Four University of Idaho students found stabbed to death in their Moscow, ID home: Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, Ethan Chapin
Nov–Dec 2022
Massive investigation; limited suspect information released; community gripped by fear
Dec 30, 2022
Bryan Kohberger arrested at his parents' home in Albrightsville, Pennsylvania
Jan 2023
Kohberger extradited to Idaho; charged with four counts of first-degree murder
Jan 2023
Kohberger pleads not guilty
Oct 2023
Court unseals significant affidavit detailing DNA evidence on knife sheath
2023–2025
Extensive pretrial proceedings; gag order; defense seeks change of venue
2025
Trial and conviction
2025–2026
Sentenced; appeals and spinoff media in full swing