Crime Junkie Podcast Summary: "INFAMOUS: University of Idaho Murders"
Episode Information:
- Title: INFAMOUS: University of Idaho Murders
- Host: Ashley Flowers
- Co-Host: Britt Schimsheimer
- Release Date: July 14, 2025
- Presented by: Audiochuck Media Company
Introduction
In this gripping episode of Crime Junkie, hosts Ashley Flowers and Britt Schimsheimer delve deep into the tragic and complex case of the University of Idaho murders. This case has captivated the nation, drawing intense media scrutiny and public fascination. The hosts aim to unravel the events, explore the investigation's intricacies, and discuss the controversial plea deal that has left victims' families divided.
Case Overview
Ashley Flowers begins by setting the scene of the tragedy:
“[00:02:04] It was a case that made every news station nationally at some point and post Karen Reid we were all gearing up for this trial to dominate public attention all over again.”
The episode centers around Bryan Kohberger, the defendant who, just weeks before his trial, accepted a plea deal to plead guilty to avoid the death penalty, sparking a significant public and familial divide.
The Night of the Murders
Ashley Flowers provides a detailed narrative of the events on November 13, 2022:
“[00:04:00] It was around 4am when Dylan Mortensen wakes up to some noises in her off-campus home at 1122 King Road.”
Dylan, under the influence from the previous night's drinking, initially mistakes the noises for a roommate's activities. However, her suspicions grow when she hears what she believes to be crying emanating from her floor, distinct from her roommate Kaylee Goncalves's location upstairs.
Dylan's confrontation with the intruder results in a chilling encounter:
“[00:05:00] ...a man dressed in all black with a mask covering his mouth and nose...his eyes beneath bushy eyebrows were looking directly at her.”
The intruder does not respond or advance towards Dylan but heads towards the sliding glass door, prompting Dylan to lock herself in her room alongside her roommate Bethany Funk.
Immediate Aftermath and Discovery
The following morning, Dylan and Bethany attempt to reach out to their roommates without success. Their anxiety leads them to call friends for assistance, culminating in a late-night Doordash delivery at 4:00 am, where a driver notices suspicious activity and urges them to call 911.
Ashley Flowers recounts a portion of Dylan's distressing call to emergency services:
“[00:11:32] C: We live at the white. So we're next to them...tell me exactly what's going on...One of the roommates has passed out and she was drunk last night and she's not waking up.”
Upon police arrival, they discover the horrifying scene: Zanna Kernodles and Ethan Chapin are found stabbed, Maddie Mogan and Kaylee Goncalves also lie victim to violent attacks. The presence of defensive wounds suggests the victims tried to protect themselves.
Investigation and Initial Theories
The investigation quickly identifies the murders as a targeted attack, although the motive remains elusive. Britt Schimsheimer highlights early public reactions:
“[00:06:07] Britt: Like five of them total living in the house then?”
The police uncover crucial evidence, including a tan leather knife sheath with a serial number, which becomes pivotal in identifying the perpetrator. Additionally, forensic evidence such as a shoe print from a Vans-style shoe and a black glove outside the home suggests the intruder's presence prior to the murders.
Suspect Identification and Arrest
Key developments in the investigation involve the identification of Bryan Kohberger. Initially, Washington State University police discover a white Hyundai Elantra matching the suspect's description, registered to Kohberger, a Ph.D. student in criminology.
Ashley Flowers details the forensic breakthroughs:
“[00:42:03] Bryan Kohberger was in an area near the crime scene and his vehicle matched the description provided by surveillance footage.”
Despite Kohberger's alibi, stating he was on winter break and accompanied by his father on a cross-country drive, DNA evidence from the knife sheath links him directly to the crime. On December 30, 2022, after meticulous investigation and evidence collection, Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvania.
Legal Proceedings and Plea Deal
Kohberger faces multiple counts of first-degree murder and burglary. During initial court appearances, his public defender, Ann Taylor, navigates complex legal challenges, including potential conflicts of interest and motions to dismiss based on Kohberger's autism diagnosis.
Ultimately, a plea deal is proposed and accepted by Kohberger just weeks before the trial was set to begin on August 18, 2025. The agreement involves pleading guilty to all charges in exchange for the removal of the death penalty from the table.
Ashley Flowers recounts the courtroom drama:
“[00:65:01] ...the court finds there is a factual basis. Therefore, with respect to count one, burglary felony, how do you plead?...Guilty.”
Impact on Victims’ Families and Public Reaction
The plea deal has left victims' families divided. While some appreciate the closure without the spectacle of a trial, others, like Kaylee's father Steve Gonzalez, feel betrayed by the state's handling of the case:
“[00:68:37] Steve Gonzalez told NBC today that Idaho has failed his whole family.”
Public sentiment remains polarized, with online communities engaging in baseless theories and accusations against innocent parties, exacerbating the families' grief and frustration.
Ongoing Mysteries and Future Developments
Despite the plea deal, the motive behind the murders remains undisclosed, maintaining an air of mystery around the case. The families and community continue to seek answers, particularly regarding why Kohberger left certain individuals alive and what specifically targeted Maddie Mogan and Kaylee Goncalves.
Ashley Flowers speculates on possible motives:
“[00:76:56] ...people suggest that maybe he dined at the restaurant that she and Zanna worked at and became fixated on Maddie.”
The episode concludes by acknowledging that while the case against Kohberger is largely settled legally, many questions linger, and the community remains vigilant as new developments may emerge.
Legacy and Remembrance
The victims—Kaylee Goncalves, Maddie Mogan, Zanna Kernodles, and Ethan Chapin—are honored through foundations established in their memory, providing educational scholarships and supporting initiatives that keep their lives remembered beyond the tragedy.
Ashley Flowers reflects on the victims' legacies:
“[00:84:35] ...they are also being honored by two foundations...”
As Crime Junkie wraps up, hosts emphasize the importance of remembering the victims and supporting the families affected by such heinous crimes.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Crime Junkie promises to continue following the aftermath of the University of Idaho murders, including sentencing and any further revelations as the legal process unfolds. Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for updates and support the victims' families through the provided links to the memorial foundations.
Notable Quotes with Attribution and Timestamps
- Ashley Flowers ([00:65:21]): "Guilty."
- Britt Schimsheimer ([00:07:21]): "Was Bethany's room on her? Her same floor or a different one?"
- Ashley Flowers ([00:84:37]): "people who knew him claim that he struggled with substance use disorder..."
- Steve Gonzalez ([00:68:37]): "Idaho has failed my whole family."
Final Thoughts
This detailed exploration by Crime Junkie offers a comprehensive overview of the University of Idaho murders, shedding light on the investigative process, legal maneuvers, and the profound impact on those left behind. By weaving together timelines, forensic evidence, and personal insights, Ashley and Britt provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of a case that continues to resonate deeply within the true crime community.
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Support the Victims:
- Ethan's Smile Foundation
- Made with Kindness Foundation
This summary captures the essence and key points of the "INFAMOUS: University of Idaho Murders" episode of Crime Junkie, providing an informative overview for those unfamiliar with the case.