Bryan Kohberger has been sentenced to four life terms for the murder of four University of Idaho students, and now his family has shared insights into their relationship with him.
Kohberger, 30, is currently incarcerated at the Idaho Maximum Security prison, where he is expected to remain for life.
He was found guilty after being apprehended for the 2022 murders of students Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, both 21, and their 20-year-old housemate Xana Kernodle, as well as her boyfriend Ethan Chapin, also 20.
These tragic events took place in an off-campus residence in Moscow, Idaho, on November 13.
Kohberger initially denied the charges but later accepted a plea deal, admitting to the murders to avoid capital punishment.
Melissa, Kohberger’s sister, has now come forward to discuss her brother, touching on a specific moment during his sentencing when he possessed a drawing of a black heart.
The 34-year-old recounted why he had this drawing. Speaking to the New York Times, the psychologist from New Jersey explained she sent the heart to her brother before his July sentencing as a gesture of familial support and love.
She wanted the heart drawing to symbolize that the family had not turned their backs on him. This drawing was reportedly copied and sent to Kohberger.
Additionally, Melissa shared that she had previously discussed the murders with Kohberger before his arrest, unaware he was involved.
She recalled warning her brother due to his habit of late-night jogging and leaving doors unlocked: “Bryan, you are running outside, and this psycho killer is on the loose. Be careful.”
Kohberger reassured her of his safety.
They discussed the case again the following month, after Kohberger traveled across the country to spend Christmas with his family in Pennsylvania.
Melissa mentioned that Kohberger casually noted the Idaho police were still “hunting for the killer.”
Melissa continues to communicate with her brother in prison, discussing his enduring interest in psychology.
She acknowledged her family’s understanding of the seriousness and malevolence of Kohberger’s actions and remarked that whenever the situation gets overwhelming for her, she reminds herself that the victims’ families are enduring far greater difficulties.