Victims’ Families Speak Out After Kohberger Sentencing
MOSCOW, Idaho – Emotions filled the courtroom as the families of the four University of Idaho students murdered in 2022 spoke publicly following the sentencing of Bryan Kohberger. The 29-year-old was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the brutal killings of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin.
During the sentencing hearing, family members delivered emotional victim impact statements, offering heartfelt memories of their loved ones and expressing the pain that continues to haunt them.
“We wake up every day to a nightmare,” said Steve Goncalves, Kaylee’s father. “There’s no sentence that can ease what we’ve lost.”
The families remembered the victims not just for the tragedy they endured, but for the joy and light they brought into the world. Madison was described as a caring and driven young woman, Xana as strong and loving, and Ethan as full of energy and kindness.
Some relatives directed their remarks at Kohberger, condemning his lack of remorse and silence throughout the proceedings. Others expressed disappointment that the trial did not bring full closure, but many said they felt a sense of justice with the sentencing.
While the case has drawn national attention, the families asked that the focus remain on the lives that were taken, not the man who took them.
“We will not let their names be forgotten,” said Stacy Chapin, Ethan’s mother.
The sentencing marked the end of a painful legal chapter, but for the families, the emotional wounds remain. They vowed to continue honoring the victims’ legacies and advocating for change to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
