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Man Accused of Killing Four University of Idaho Students Claims Innocence
Accused Former Criminology Student Presents Alibi in Court
Bryan Kohberger — the man accused of killing four University of Idaho students in November 2022 — claims that he’s innocent and has an alibi for the night the brutal stabbings occurred.
Alibi Supported by Cellphone Data
According to a new court filing, Kohberger, 29, claims he was driving in Pullman, Wash., on the night of the murders. His defense attorney argues that Kohberger frequently engaged in late-night drives for outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and stargazing, as reported by CNN and NBC News.
During the upcoming trial, Kohberger’s defense intends to call an expert witness to present cellphone data from the night of the murders in an effort to support his alibi, NBC News reports.
Victim Profile and Crime Details
Bryan Kohberger, who had previously pursued a Ph.D in criminology, is facing charges for the murder of Madison Mogen, 21, Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20. The tragic incident occurred at an off-campus residence in Moscow, Idaho, during the early hours of November 13. The victims included roommates and a boyfriend of one of the roommates. Two other present roommates were unharmed and have since been ruled out as suspects, as reported by People.
Evidence Tying the Accused to the Crime
Kohberger was taken into custody approximately seven weeks after the killings, during a visit to his family in Pennsylvania for the holidays. Investigators allegedly linked him to the murders through DNA evidence found on a knife sheath discovered at the crime scene in the victims’ bed. The gathered evidence and the probable cause affidavit reviewed by People led to his arrest.
Furthermore, authorities discovered that Kohberger’s cellphone had pinged in the vicinity of the crime scene on multiple occasions leading up to November 13, 2022, providing additional weight to the prosecution’s case against him.
Motive and Restriction on Case Information
There has been no release of information regarding the motive behind the killings. Limited information is being shared due to a sweeping gag order that prevents officials and the victims’ families’ attorneys from discussing the case with the media or the public.
House Linked to Tragedy Demolished
In December 2023, the three-story house where the quadruple homicide occurred was demolished.
The University of Idaho released a statement saying, “This is a healing step and removes the physical structure where the crime that shook our community was committed” (source: University of Idaho).
University of Idaho President Scott expressed, “Sometimes it is hard to see beyond this tragedy. But the selfless acts, the deep engagement and loving support of our entire Vandal Family reminds me that there is so much good in the world. We will never forget Xana, Ethan, Madison, and Kaylee, and I will do everything in my power to protect their dignity and respect their memory” (source: University of Idaho).
