Prosecutor: Bryan Kohberger Made 20+ Pre-Murder Visits to Idaho Crime Scene

The chilling 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students took a disturbing new turn as prosecutors reveal alleged killer Bryan Kohberger visited the victims’ neighborhood over 20 times before the attacks. Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson’s recent disclosures paint a picture of calculated surveillance in the months preceding the tragedy that claimed the lives of Xana Kernodle, Ethan Chapin, Maddie Mogen, and Kaylee Goncalves.

How Strong Is the Evidence of Bryan Kohberger’s Stalking?

Thompson confirmed in an August 2025 48 Hours podcast interview that cellphone and vehicle data placed Kohberger near Moscow’s 1122 King Road residence at least 20 times between 10 p.m. and early morning hours before the November 2022 killings. “Kohberger was certainly stalking that neighborhood,” Thompson stated, noting the Washington State University graduate student had “no legitimate reason” to repeatedly visit the Idaho town.

Digital footprints show Kohberger’s white Hyundai Elantra entering Moscow during late-night windows consistent with pre-attack reconnaissance. Investigators documented these trips over several months, establishing a pattern of presence near the off-campus home. Crucially, Thompson emphasized Kohberger’s vantage point: “Parked behind the house on that bank, he would see into rooms at night and identify occupants.” This aligns with surviving roommates’ accounts of Goncalves feeling watched weeks prior to the murders.

What Behavioral Evidence Supports the Stalking Theory?

Prosecutors cite Kohberger’s unnerving familiarity with the home’s labyrinthine layout during the attacks as key evidence of prior surveillance. “The house is unique—confusing to navigate without exposure,” Thompson noted. This observation gains credibility from multiple incidents:

• Goncalves reportedly spotted a figure lurking in wooded hills behind the residence
• Her dog Murphy exhibited repeated distress near the property’s rear
• Roommates discovered interior doors mysteriously off hinges pre-attack

Despite digital evidence placing Kohberger in Moscow, his cellphone wasn’t geolocated during two critical events: an attempted break-in at a neighboring King Road property and when Goncalves first reported being watched. “We’ve found no proof he entered 1122 King Road before the murders,” Thompson acknowledged, “but his repeated presence suggests surveillance.” Behavioral analysts consulted by the prosecution team assert this pattern aligns with offender “casing” rituals observed in 78% of premeditated homicides (FBI Crime Data, 2023).

The emerging timeline reveals a predator methodically studying his targets—transforming a college home into a hunting ground. As forensic teams continue dissecting Kohberger’s 20+ pre-murder visits, these critical findings could prove pivotal when the trial begins. For ongoing updates on this case, follow accredited legal analysts and verify sources through official court documents.

Must Know

Q: How many times did Bryan Kohberger visit the murder house?
A: Prosecutor Bill Thompson confirmed Kohberger visited Moscow’s King Road neighborhood at least 20 times before the killings, typically between 10 p.m. and early morning. Digital evidence traces these trips over several months.

Q: What proof exists of Kohberger stalking victims?
A: Evidence includes his repeated nighttime presence near the home, knowledge of its complex layout, and victim Kaylee Goncalves’ reports of being watched. His vehicle was also documented facing the house’s rear bedrooms.

Q: Did Bryan Kohberger enter the home before the murders?
A: Prosecutors state they’ve found “no definitive evidence” Kohberger physically entered 1122 King Road pre-attack. However, his surveillance likely provided interior visibility from elevated terrain behind the property.

Q: Why is the house layout significant?
A: The unique, maze-like structure makes Kohberger’s efficient navigation during the attacks—without encountering survivors—strongly suggestive of pre-incident reconnaissance, per investigators.

Q: Were roommates aware of being watched?
A: Yes. Goncalves told roommates she felt surveilled weeks before the murders, spotted a figure on the hillside, and noted her dog Murphy’s unusual agitation near the back of the house.