The man accused of murdering four University of Idaho students two years ago may be punished with the death penalty if he is convicted, the trial judge has ruled.
Idaho's alternative to the death penalty for a first-degree murder conviction is life in prison with at least 10 years served before becoming eligible for parole.
Prosecutors had said in court filings that four aggravating factors exist in the case against Kohberger, who turns 30 on Thursday, making the crime more severe and meriting the death penalty.
From top left, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle.
A motive remains unclear for the killings of housemates Madison Mogen, 21, Kaylee Goncalves, 21, and Xana Kernodle, 20, and Kernodle's boyfriend, Ethan Chapin, 20, in November 2022.
Persons:
Bryan Kohberger's, Steven Hippler, Hippler, Defendant, Prosecutors, Kohberger, Jeff Nye, Nye, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin, Xana, Hipple, Thomas Creech, —, Anne Taylor, Taylor, Xana Kernodle, Steve Goncalves, Kaylee
Organizations:
University of Idaho, Washington State University, NBC News
Locations:
Boise , Idaho, Idaho, Xana Kernodle . Idaho, Pullman, Washington, Boise, Latah County