Idaho murders: Bryan Christopher Kohberger held 'passionate grudge' against victims, says criminologist
This article is based on sources and MEAWW cannot verify this information independently
MOSCOW, IDAHO: As the investigation continues, a criminal expert claims that the killer likely knew the victims and could have held a "passionate grudge" over a previous encounter. Four University of Idaho students, Ethan Chapin, 20, Xana Kernodle, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21 were stabbed to death on November 13 as they slept in their off-campus home on King Road. Apparently, a suspect identified as Bryan Christopher Kohberger was taken into custody in connection with the stabbings on December 30.
The motive behind the attack is still unknown and no weapon has been recovered yet. Moscow PD is urging people to come out with any information they have. "Investigators believe someone has information that adds context to what occurred on the night of the murders and continues requesting additional pictures, video, and social media content.", said the recent press release.
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Leonard Adam Sipes Jr, a criminology professor and former specialist for the US Department of Justice's clearinghouse believes that the offender is a man who likely knew the victims and knew where they lived. He believes the murderer could be someone who felt rejected or humiliated by one of the victims.
"The offender could be someone who knew the victims from afar; someone who was aware of where they lived and their level of protection," he told Express.co.uk.
He further added, " But to kill four, suggests that the offender had a passionate grudge."
"Most offenders at the time of their crimes are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. An offender with a grudge, however minor, could be responsible. The grudge could be minor to us but important to the offender.", he said.
Sipes, the former information director for the National Crime Prevention Council, said that statistically male offenders usually have prior knowledge of their female victims, and highlighted that 76 percent of female murders are committed by someone they knew.
"It takes a lot of passion to kill four people with a knife", he said. However, he explained that extreme violent crimes of this nature are often committed by "substance-fueled" offenders who may be struggling with mental illness.
He said the killer could have been holding a "real or imaginary grudge", giving an example that one of the slain female students could have "looked like a girl who rejected him".
Sipes said some offenders return to the scene and keep "bits of clothing or something personal as a memento", but if it's someone known to the victims, he would likely avoid the crime scene.
"He would have all the souvenirs he wanted just by the immense amount of media coverage", he added.
Disclaimer: This is based on sources and we have been unable to verify this information independently