The parents of a University of Idaho murder victim, Maddie Mogen, believe that there is evidence showing that their daughter’s attacker, Bryan Kohberger, was familiar with her. In an investigation CBS News, screenshots were shared that allegedly show Kohberger’s Instagram account following Mogen and another victim, Kaylee Goncalves. Mrs. Goncalves stated that they found that Kohberger had interacted with Mogen’s Instagram posts liking them. However, CBS has not verified the authenticity of the account or confirmed that it belongs to Kohberger.
The victims, Mogen and Goncalves, along with Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin, were stabbed to death at an off-campus residence on November 13, 2022. Police arrived at the scene eight hours after the attack, and the murder weapon, a military-style knife, has yet to be recovered.
After a weeks-long manhunt, Kohberger, a 28-year-old Washington State University student, was arrested and charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one burglary charge. Investigators reportedly have DNA, cellphone records, and surveillance camera evidence linking Kohberger to the crime.
The trial date was initially set for October 2, 2023, but Kohberger caused a delay waiving his right to a speedy trial. The case has attracted national attention, and a request was made both the defense and prosecution to restrict cameras in the courtroom. Kohberger’s attorney argued that the media should not focus on his client’s crotch, while the prosecution expressed concerns about the impact of cameras on witness testimony.
However, the families of Goncalves and Kernodle disagreed with the prosecution’s position and requested that cameras be present in order to document the trial. They believe that transparency is important for accountability and maintaining faith in the justice system.
No decision was made regarding the presence of cameras in the courtroom at the conclusion of the hearing.
Sources:
– CBS News: “The Night of the Idaho Student Murders”
– Source 2
