End of an Era: Idaho Murders House Scheduled for Demolition Today

On Sunday, Nov. 13, 2022, four University of Idaho students were discovered dead at this Moscow, Idaho, house.Photo byANGELA PALERMO/IDAHO STATESMAN/TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE VIA GETTY IMAGES

In a poignant and solemn event marking a painful chapter in the University of Idaho's history, the house where four students were brutally murdered last year is scheduled for demolition today. This structure, located on King Road in Moscow, Idaho, had been passed over to the university earlier this year and holds the grim memory of the tragic deaths of Kaylee Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Ethan Chapin, and Xana Kernodle.
The trial of the suspect, Bryan Kohberger, initially set for October, experienced delays, consequently pushing back the demolition process. Kohberger, 28, is expected to face trial next summer for the stabbing deaths of the four young individuals.

Both the prosecution and defence had been granted access to the six-bedroom house before its scheduled demolition. In October, the FBI collected additional information from the property. Neither party involved in the legal proceedings opposed the decision to raze the structure.

The timing of the demolition during the school's winter break was deliberate, aiming to minimize the presence of students in the area. University President Scott Green emphasized the necessity of removing the house, stating it serves as a painful reminder of the tragic incident and the collective healing process the community requires.

However, emotions are divided among the victims' families regarding the demolition. While Kaylee Goncalves' family staunchly opposes the demolition, citing evidentiary and emotional significance, Ethan Chapin's family expressed support for the decision, recognizing its importance for the university, its students, and the community.

The brutal incident occurred in November 2022, leaving the university community reeling from the loss. Bryan Kohberger, a graduate student at Washington State University, was apprehended a month later and has since pleaded not guilty to the charges.

University spokeswoman Jodi Walker emphasized the symbolic significance of the demolition, acknowledging that the sight of the house has been a constant reminder for many students, impacting their daily lives. The removal of the structure is hoped to contribute positively to the healing process for the affected community members.

As the demolition of this house unfolds today, it marks a significant step in the ongoing journey of healing and closure for the University of Idaho community, although it brings with it a flood of emotions and a reminder of the tragic events that transpired there.