The brutal murders of four University of Idaho students – Kaylee Goncalves, Maddie Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin – have sent shockwaves through the nation. As the investigation into the crimes continues, the families of the victims are desperately seeking answers, including any possible connections between the suspect, Bryan Kohberger, and their loved ones.
Shannon Gray, the attorney representing the family of Kaylee Goncalves, revealed that their own investigation has not uncovered any links between Kohberger and Kaylee. They believe that Kaylee did not know Kohberger prior to the murders. All information gathered by the family has been turned over to the Moscow Police Department.
Image of Kaylee Goncalves smiling
The question of whether Kohberger had any prior connection to the other victims – Kernodle, Chapin, or Maddie Mogen – remains unanswered. Moscow police are actively investigating this possibility, meticulously piecing together the events leading up to the murders.
Kohberger, a 28-year-old Ph.D. student at a nearby university, moved to Pullman, Washington, in August 2022. Chillingly, cell phone data cited in the probable cause affidavit suggests that Kohberger, or at least his phone, was present in the vicinity of the victims’ residence at least twelve times between August and November 13th, 2022, the date of the murders.
Kohberger faces four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary. He is currently being held without bail at the Latah County Jail.
A status hearing has been scheduled for Thursday, during which Kohberger’s legal team will meet with the court. This hearing could potentially result in two outcomes: setting a date for a preliminary hearing or waiving the preliminary hearing and setting a date for arraignment.
Image of Bryan Kohberger during a court appearance
Attorney Shannon Gray, speaking on behalf of the Goncalves family, anticipates a straightforward status hearing focused on these procedural steps. He emphasized the family’s commitment to being present, either directly or through representation, at every stage of the legal process.
The hearing, scheduled for 8:00 AM Pacific time (11:00 AM Eastern time), will be closely watched as the case unfolds. Law enforcement and the families of the victims hope for answers and a path towards justice.
