Newly released court documents have unveiled a chilling aspect of the ongoing investigation into Bryan Kohberger, the 30-year-old criminology Ph.D. student accused of murdering four University of Idaho students in November 2022.
According to an NBC News Dateline episode “The Terrible Night on King Road” premiering May 9, Kohberger’s internet search history included terms such as “drugged,” “passed out,” “forced,” and “sleeping,” suggesting a disturbing preoccupation with nonconsensual acts.
According to People, authorities also revealed that Kohberger conducted online searches related to infamous serial killer Ted Bundy, further deepening concerns about his psychological state leading up to the crimes.
These findings were part of a broader investigation that included surveillance footage and cell phone data placing Kohberger near the victims’ residence multiple times before the murders.
The “Holly” text
According to the Idaho 4 Dateline episode, Kohberger also sent a “peculiar” text to another graduate student at Washington State University.
That student, Holly, says she met Kohberger at a pool party in July 2022. During their conversation, Kohberger mentioned he had recently moved to the area to begin his Ph.D. studies. Holly, enrolled in a plant science graduate program, shared information about a hiking group she was part of, and the two exchanged phone numbers.
The following day, Holly received a text message from Kohberger that she described as “peculiar” and “almost overly formal.” The message read, “Hey I am pretty sure we spoke about hiking trips yesterday. I really enjoy that activity so please let me know. Thanks!” Reflecting on the message, Holly noted that its tone was unusually formal for a casual follow-up after a social event.
The Idaho 4 case
The victims—Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin—were found stabbed to death in their off-campus home in Moscow, Idaho. Police arrested Kohberger in December 202s. He has pleaded not guilty to four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary. His trial will begin on August 11, 2025, in Ada County.
The revelation of Kohberger’s internet search history adds a new layer to the prosecution’s case, painting a picture of a suspect with a potential fascination for control and violence. As the trial approaches, these details are expected to play a significant role in the courtroom proceedings.
