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Idaho judge halts the release of disturbing images from Kohberger crime scene

October 2, 2025

Court Decision on Idaho Murder Case

An Idaho judge has ruled against the public release of graphic images from the crime scene where Brian Coberger killed four University of Idaho students.

On Wednesday, Second District Judge Megan Marshall announced that law enforcement will not be able to release photos depicting blood and the victims’ bodies. Coberger has pleaded guilty to the murders of Ethan Chapin, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Kaylee Goncalves.

Judge Marshall explained that releasing such images would invade personal privacy unfairly. She noted that the materials involved are very difficult to confront and provide a grim look at the tragic events that occurred on November 13, 2022.

While law enforcement can continue to release other media related to the case, like photos and videos, they must redact sensitive parts, including visible blood and the bodies. However, this ban on certain investigative records remains in place, despite public interest in the materials. The families of the victims were part of the discussion regarding the release of these documents.

Coberger’s guilty plea eliminated the possibility of facing the death penalty, resulting in four life sentences without parole for first-degree murder and one count of felony robbery for the tragic events on that fateful night.

Timeline of Key Events from November 13, 2022:

4:00 AM: Suspect arrives at the home
4:00 AM – 4:17 AM: Murders occur
4:19 AM: Roommate attempts to call the three victims, but no one answers
4:22 – 4:24 AM: Surviving roommates text one another from inside the house
4:27 AM: Roommate calls the victims again, with no answer
4:32 AM: Roommate texts Goncalves, pleading for a response
10:23 AM: Surviving roommate texts victims again, but no responses
11:39 AM: Roommate calls their father
12:00 PM: 911 calls are made from the roommate’s phone

On July 23, Judge Stephen Hippler lifted a previous gag order on the agency tied to the case, paving the way for the release of investigation documents, which many are eager to see.