MOSCOW, ID – Investigators say they still do not have a suspect in the murders of four University of Idaho students a week ago. At a press conference this afternoon, Moscow Police Chief Jim Fry said they have received nearly 650 tips and have conducted more than 90 interviews since the deaths were discovered on November 13th at a residence in the 1100 block of King Road.
Autopsies determined the victims were killed with a large fixed-blade knife; local businesses were canvassed to determine if any such weapons had recently been purchased, Captain Roger Lanier says.
The students were identified as 20-year-old Ethan Chapin of Conway, Washington; 21-year-old Madison Mogen of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; 21-year-old Kaylee Goncalves of Rathdrum, Idaho; and 20-year-old Xana Kernodle of Avondale, Arizona. Officials say two of the victims were found on the second floor and the other two were discovered on the 3rd floor.
Two roommates were in the home at the time of the murders but reportedly did not hear the crimes taking place. They were not injured.
Fry says they have received significant help from the Latah County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho State Police, and Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Lanier says this “tragic event” has shaken the community and will take some time to resolve.
Lanier says they are investigating the known movements of the victims in the hours before they were killed.
Lanier addressed the extensive rumors and speculation about the murders on the various social media sites.
The 911 call came from inside the house at 11:58 a.m. and was made from one of the surviving roommates’ phones.
Lanier says investigators have identified two areas of interest.
Meanwhile, Idaho State Police Director Col. Kedrick Wills says they have an absolute commitment to solving these “senseless” murders.”
Wills says ISP will be providing resources throughout the investigation.
While they understand the public wants answers, Wills says the best way people can assist investigators is by stopping the spread of disinformation.
University of Idaho President Scott Green says they have ramped up safety protocols on campus.
Green says they must balance safety concerns and the need to grieve, along with the long-term needs of students and employees. He is asking instructors to plan for teaching on campus and remotely; final decisions will be made early this week.
