Updated as of August 14, 2025
Introduction
The murders of four University of Idaho students in November 2022 shocked the nation and set off one of the most closely watched criminal investigations in recent history. From the moment Bryan Kohberger was identified as the suspect to his eventual guilty plea and life sentences, each development drew intense public attention.
Now that the trial has concluded, newly released police documents, photographs, and courtroom images are giving the public a deeper look into the investigation. This timeline brings together all major events — from the crime itself, through the legal proceedings, to the post-sentencing evidence releases — in one comprehensive narrative.
The Full Timeline
November 13, 2022
Four University of Idaho students — Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin — are found fatally stabbed in an off-campus house in Moscow, Idaho. The killings send shockwaves through the community and draw nationwide media coverage.
December 30, 2022
Bryan Kohberger is arrested at his parents’ home in Pennsylvania. Investigators cite DNA evidence found on a knife sheath at the crime scene and surveillance footage as pivotal. He is charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one count of felony burglary.
January 3–5, 2023
Kohberger is extradited to Idaho. A judge orders him held without bail. A sweeping gag order is issued, restricting public commentary from officials and attorneys.
May 17, 2023
A grand jury indicts Kohberger on all charges. He remains silent during arraignment, leading the judge to enter a not guilty plea on his behalf.
August–October 2023
Defense waives the right to a speedy trial. Motions are filed to suppress certain evidence and to remove the death penalty as an option.
December 28, 2023
The University of Idaho demolishes the house where the murders occurred, sparking criticism from some victims’ families concerned about possible lost evidence.
June–October 2024
The trial is postponed multiple times, shifting from June 2025 to August 2025.
November 2024–April 2025
Judge rules that prosecutors may seek the death penalty.
March 2025
Prosecution reveals a previously undisclosed photo — a selfie reportedly taken by Kohberger the morning after the killings.
June 30, 2025
Kohberger accepts a plea deal to avoid the death penalty, agreeing to plead guilty to all charges and waive the right to appeal. Families of victims are notified, though some criticize the arrangement.
July 2, 2025
In court, Kohberger pleads guilty to four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary, admitting to premeditation.
July 23, 2025
At sentencing in Boise, Kohberger receives four consecutive life sentences without parole, plus an additional 10 years for burglary. The death penalty is taken off the table per the plea agreement.
Post-Sentencing Evidence Releases
Late July – August 2025
With the case closed, authorities begin releasing large volumes of investigative material:
- Documents: Hundreds of pages detailing crime scene processing, DNA analyses, digital evidence, autopsies, and witness statements.
- Photographs: Nearly 200 crime scene images, including the interior of the house, entry points, blood evidence, and personal belongings.
- Courtroom Media: Images and videos from the plea and sentencing hearings showing Kohberger, his attorneys, prosecutors, and victims’ families.
- Media Coverage: Outlets like Court TV and Getty Images publish extensive galleries and video breakdowns of the case.
Some sensitive materials remain sealed, but Judge Hippler is reviewing further releases expected in the coming weeks.
Current Status — August 14, 2025
Bryan Kohberger is serving four life sentences without parole in the Idaho Department of Corrections. Under the plea agreement, no appeals or sentence modifications are possible. The community continues to grapple with the tragedy, while the release of official materials keeps public interest alive.