Families of University of Idaho Students File Wrongful Death Lawsuit Against WSU
The families of four University of Idaho students, tragically murdered in a 2022 stabbing incident, have initiated a wrongful death lawsuit against Washington State University (WSU). They allege that the university disregarded numerous warning signals concerning the conduct of Bryan Kohberger, who has since pleaded guilty to the crimes.
Why It Matters
This lawsuit underscores critical issues surrounding campus safety and institutional accountability. With allegations of gross negligence, the case raises important questions about how universities manage reports of threatening behavior and the extent of their responsibility to protect students.
Key Developments
- The lawsuit was filed on January 7 in Skagit County Superior Court.
- Plaintiffs include family members of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin.
- The complaint accuses WSU of failing to address over a dozen reports of Kohberger’s predatory behavior towards female students.
- The plaintiffs seek unspecified monetary damages but aim to keep the focus on accountability rather than sensationalism.
- Kohberger was arrested in December 2022 and subsequently pleaded guilty to multiple counts of murder in July 2025.
Full Report
Lawsuit Accusations
The families are claiming that WSU’s negligence and inaction contributed to the murders of their loved ones. They argue that the university employed Kohberger as a teaching assistant in its criminal justice and criminology department despite receiving at least 13 formal complaints about his alleged threatening and harassing behavior towards women. The lawsuit contends that WSU failed to conduct meaningful investigations into these claims and allowed Kohberger continued access to students on campus.
Legal Implications
Attorney Robert Clifford, who is not involved in the case, explained that the choice to leave damages unspecified helps maintain jury focus. He elaborated that the burden of proof in civil cases is lower than in criminal cases, which allows the families to present their claims even in light of Kohberger’s guilty plea.
WSU’s Response
As of now, WSU has not filed a response to the lawsuit. The university has been contacted for comments regarding the allegations, but there has been no official statement as of yet.
Context & Previous Events
Kohberger was arrested following a multi-state investigation linked to the murders through DNA evidence, surveillance footage, and mobile data showing his presence near the victims’ residence. Upon pleading guilty, he was sentenced to four consecutive life terms without the chance of parole, leading to renewed scrutiny of the circumstances that allowed the tragic events to unfold.
