Bryan Kohberger trial: Demolition of Idaho murder house raises concerns about 'destruction of evidence'
This article is based on sources and MEAWW cannot verify this information independently.
MOSCOW, IDAHO: The demolition of the house where four University of Idaho students were fatally stabbed on November 13, 2022, before suspect Bryan Kohberger's trial raised concerns among the victims' family members. They worry that the jury wouldn't be able to examine the crime scene if they wanted to.
The letter from the University of Idaho, asking the parents of the victims Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, to retrieve additional items, has been acquired by NewsNation. It is reported that 1122 King Road will be destroyed following "remediation."
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What did the University of Idaho say?
"I first want to express my condolences to each of you for the tragic loss you have suffered. I greatly appreciate the positive manner in which you have interacted with the University in the aftermath of this tragedy," the acting general counsel for the University of Idaho stated in a statement to the victim’s families. The home was given to the university by the owner with the intention of having it demolished.
"Before doing so, we will complete remediation within the house to address biohazards and chemical hazards that exist as a result of the crime and ensuing evidence," the statement read. It added, "Items not selected will then be properly disposed of. This will not apply to large bulky items such as sofas, beds. … If you have specific items you wish to be on the lookout for, regardless of size, please let me know. If we can locate and retain them for you we will."
According to a February memo from the university president, a memorial and garden will be created after the home is destroyed. An extensive quadruple murder investigation into the stabbing deaths of Goncalves, Kernodle, Chapin, and Mogen, was conducted at the unassuming gray home on King Road. According to photos analyzed by NewsNation, the house is a 2,175-square-foot, tri-level, six-bedroom, three-bathroom home with at least one accessible back door.
The "University of Idaho Murders-Case Discussion" Facebook group admins Kristine Cameron and Alina Smith stated that group members have a variety of viewpoints on different aspects of the investigation and prosecution of Kohberger. The majority of the members are deeply concerned for the families who have been left behind. The opinion on the page is "split" regarding whether or not the home ought to be torn down.
'That feels like something is being hidden'
Users of YouTube immediately responded to the news, with many expressing concern that the house's demolition would obscure important trial evidence. A user commented, "It is a mistake to tear down the house until after the trial process is completed. There are matters and issues that will come up during the trial where they will wish the house was still there to access, issues that they cannot foresee at this time." Another user said, "Stinks that it will be demolished and not made available to jury to get crucial perspective. And the sound aspect within it and outside of it is important too."
Further, a person mentioned, "Why can't they wait till this Trial is over?" A person remarked, "I always thought the demolition would be a kind of destruction of evidence. There is no rush to get rid of the house. Somebody's feelings are less important than making sure to preserve anything that could help find the culprit. The trial hasn't even started, for God's sake." Another user added, "They should do it after the trial. I believe the jurors need to do a walk through of the home. Once his trial end is when they should do it and make the memorial. That feels like something is being hidden."
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.