Bryan Kohberger’s phone contained various photos, including images of students in bikinis, unsettling selfies reminiscent of Ted Bundy, and searches related to explicit content.
He also explored Britney Spears’ song “Criminals,” as reported by NBC News’ “Dateline.”
In the weeks leading up to the tragic stabbings of four University of Idaho students in Moscow, Kohberger had searched for numerous pictures of female students from both Washington and the University of Idaho dressed in swimsuits. Some of these images were linked to friends or followers of the victims, Xana Kernodle, Kaylee Goncalves, and Madison Mogen, who were killed on November 13, 2022, in their home at night.
Tragically, Kernodle’s boyfriend, Ethan Chapin, was also among those victims.
Evidence retrieved from Kohberger’s phone highlighted a disturbing selfie that mirrored Bundy’s persona, alongside searches for local bikini-clad students.
He also explored concepts like “social disability characteristics of college students,” and various forms of pornography that included references to “drugs” and “sleep.”
In late September, students from Kohberger’s criminology program at Washington State University were noted to have searched similar phrases, raising concerns over sociopathic traits within the college demographic.
In October, he queried “Can psychopaths act sporty?” and reportedly sought information about the “University of Idaho murder” following the incidents.
Authorities started gathering evidence from the crime scene in December, including DNA found on a knife sheath in Mogen’s bedroom, which eventually pointed to Kohberger.
Interestingly, he also searched for Britney Spears’ “Criminal” shortly before he was apprehended.
He was arrested on December 30, 2022, at a relative’s home in Pennsylvania.
Recently released footage showcased a white modern-day Elantra, resembling Kohberger’s car, circulating near the off-campus residences on the night of the murders.
A special segment featuring new evidence is set to air at 9 PM ET on NBC’s “Dateline.”
Kohberger now faces charges for four murders and one robbery in connection with the deaths of Goncalves, Mogen, Kernodle, and Chapin.
The two surviving roommates are expected to testify during the trial.
While Kohberger has pleaded not guilty, he may face the death penalty if convicted during his upcoming trial in August.
