On Friday, the demolition of the house where four college students were fatally stabbed began.
Last November, Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, were killed inside the three-story home that was donated to the University of Idaho by its owner.
“This is a healing step and removes the physical structure where the crime that shook our community was committed,” a statement made earlier this year by the school reads. “Demolition also removes efforts to further sensationalize the crime scene. We are evaluating options where students may be involved in the future development of the property.”
On Nov. 13, 2022, the four Univ. of Idaho students were killed inside the house located at 1122 King Road in Moscow, Idaho. Authorities believe the murders took place between 4 and 4:25 a.m.
The university confirmed the demolition date in a Dec. 14 press release and said that suspect Bryan Kohberger’s attorneys planned to go to the home on Dec. 14 and 15 to “take photographs. measurements and possibly gather drone footage of the house.”
Kohberger was arrested after authorities connected him to the crime scene using DNA evidence that was found on a knife sheath left beside one of the deceased victims, surveillance footage, and his cell phone pings, PEOPLE reported.
“Sometimes it is hard to see beyond this tragedy,” University of Idaho President Scott added in the February 24 statement. “But the selfless acts, the deep engagement, and loving support of our entire Vandal Family reminds me that there is so much good in the world. We will never forget Xana, Ethan, Madison, and Kaylee, and I will do everything in my power to protect their dignity and respect their memory.”
In addition to the house being demolished, a “healing garden and memorial” is also being created on the university’s campus in memory of the four students and additional students from the University of Idaho who have passed away.
