MOSCOW, Idaho — The house where four University of Idaho students were brutally killed last year was torn down Thursday morning, Dec. 28.
It's the house where four students – Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin – were stabbed to death on Nov. 13, 2022.
According to the university, the house on King Road in Moscow, Idaho, was set to be demolished beginning at 7 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 28 and was expected to take several days to clear the site.
After the murders, the original owners of the home donated it to the university last year.
Tearing down the off-campus house was a decision made by university officials for the well-being of other students living in the neighborhood.
“We continue to heal as a community and this is definitely a step toward that,” said Jodi Walker, communications director for the university.
University of Idaho President Scott Green said the house is a “grim reminder of the heinous act that took place there.”
“While we appreciate the emotional connection some family members of the victims may have to this house, it is time for its removal and to allow the collective healing of our community to continue,” Green said.
A suspect – Bryan Kohberger – was arrested about seven weeks after the fatal stabbings. Kohberger, a 28-year-old Ph.D. criminology student at neighboring campus Washington State University, remains behind bars while he awaits trial.
The defense team for Kohberger had access to the house earlier in December.
Since the day of the killings, the house has been the site of unwanted attention. A blue security trailer sits out front, housed with guards who watch over the home day and night.
However, family members of the Idaho victims oppose its demolition, especially before Kohberger’s trial.
The family of Kaylee Goncalves has previously shared their reservations about demolishing the home. Through an attorney, the family said the house is “one of the most critical pieces of evidence in the case” and that it has evidentiary value while it is still standing.
“Isn’t it better to have the King Rd. House and not need it than need the house and not have it?” the statement asks.
This is a developing story. Check back soon for updates.