Witness Set to Testify in University of Idaho Homicide Case
Former DoorDash Driver Claims Connection to Crime Scene
In an unfolding development surrounding the tragic 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students, a DoorDash driver is expected to testify about delivering food to the victims just moments before the stabbings occurred. The woman, who remains unnamed, has informed law enforcement that she delivered an order to Xana Kernodle at the Moscow residence shortly before the fatal attack that claimed the lives of Kernodle, her boyfriend Ethan Chapin, and their friends Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves.
Timeline of Events
According to a probable cause affidavit, Kernodle’s order from a local Jack in the Box arrived at 3:59 a.m., just minutes before the attacks began. The DoorDash driver reported her encounter with alleged murderer Bryan Kohberger, claiming, "I parked right next to him." She made these statements during a traffic stop with Pullman police in Washington, where she revealed her distress over the high-profile case and the possibility of testifying in court.
Kohberger, who has been charged with four counts of first-degree murder, is accused of committing the crimes in the early hours of November 13, 2022. He was arrested in December 2022 and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in criminology at Washington State University, approximately ten miles from the crime scene.
Defense’s Requests for Trial Delays
As Kohberger’s trial date approaches—set for August 11, 2023—his attorneys have requested multiple delays, citing concerns over leaked evidence stemming from a recent "Dateline" episode. The episode purportedly showcased footage of a vehicle circling the area around the victims’ home shortly before the stabbings, further complicating the trial’s media landscape. The defense argues additional time is needed to prepare adequately for the proceedings.
Evidence and Investigations
Prosecutors have presented DNA evidence linking Kohberger to the crime scene. A knife sheath found near Mogen and Goncalves’ bodies contained DNA identified as belonging to Kohberger, raising significant questions about his whereabouts during the time of the murders. Notably, Kohberger allegedly turned off his phone on the night of the incident and had previously visited the area multiple times.
Defense attorneys have indicated that evidence has been withheld, including unidentified DNA samples found outside the victims’ home. Investigators have performed extensive DNA tests, establishing that the likelihood of Kohberger being excluded as the biological father of the DNA sample is exceedingly high.
Venue Change and Ongoing Preparation
Due to serious concerns regarding media exposure and the ability to conduct a fair trial, Latah County court officials have moved the trial to Boise, Ada County, while continuing to bear the financial responsibility for the proceedings. This decision followed an endorsement from the state supreme court aimed at ensuring Kohberger’s right to a fair trial.
As preparations move forward, the upcoming days promise to shed further light on this complex case, which has captivated public attention nationwide.
Updates will follow as new information emerges.
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Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.