Nearly three years after four University of Idaho students were brutally stabbed to death, their families will confront Bryan Kohberger at his sentencing on Wednesday. The 30-year-old former PhD criminology student pleaded guilty in July 2025 to the murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin, as well as one count of burglary.
The November 2022 slayings in Moscow, Idaho, shocked the nation. Kohberger initially maintained his innocence but entered a surprise guilty plea, taking the death penalty off the table. He faces life in prison without parole. The sentencing begins at 9 a.m. MT (11 a.m. ET) in Boise, Idaho.
Victims' families and surviving roommates will have the opportunity to deliver impact statements. The family of Ethan Chapin has said they will not attend, but the families of the three women are expected to appear. Moscow Police Chief Anthony Dahlinger expressed hope that the hearing will allow the community to heal.
Kohberger will have the chance to speak in allocution but is not required to do so. He has remained stoic in court and has not explained his motive. The plea agreement does not obligate him to express remorse or share details of the crime. The knife used in the killings has never been found.
