Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty to four counts of murder, and at his sentencing, the two surviving roommates from the 2022 University of Idaho killings gave moving victim impact statements.
Although he provided no justification for the act, Kohberger acknowledged earlier this month that he had killed Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen, and Kaylee Goncalves.
One of the surviving roommates, Bethany Funke, was in the courtroom for the hearing, and Emily Alandt read a letter on her behalf.
In the days and weeks that followed, Funke said, she hardly left the house and still checks her room every night to make sure it’s safe to sleep, indicating that she has been traumatized since the night of the killings.
The letter’s words, “That was the worst day of my life, and I know it always will be,” were read by Alandt.
She went on, I was unable to leave my bed for a long time, but one day I understood that I had to live for them. They were denied the opportunity to continue living. I will not take that for granted, though, because I do.
Alandt was followed by Dylan Mortensen, the other surviving roommate. She spoke while crying, sharing her feelings for Kohberger and the importance of her friends.
She claimed that four lovely, sincere, and kind persons had been snatched from this world without cause.
“He may have taken so much from me, but he will never get to take my voice,” she said. “The memories I have of them will never be taken by him. The laughter we shared, the love we shared, and the way they made me feel entire and seen will never be erased by him. I own those goods. He will never touch them because they are precious.
In reference to Kohberger, who remained emotionless, she continued, “At least I get to enjoy my life. He will remain here, helpless, forgotten, and empty.
