Four college students were found dead in a residence close to the University of Idaho campus Sunday, sparking a homicide investigation and shocking the campus of 11,500 students.
The four students were identified as 20-year-old Ethan Chapin of Conway, Washington, 21-year-old Madison Mogen of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, 20-year-old Xana Kernodle of Avondale, Arizona, and 21-year-old Kaylee Goncalves of Rathdrum, Idaho.
The homicides are being investigated, but no other details have been provided. No suspect was in custody as of midday Monday. Police have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
The University of Idaho stated that police have indicated “there is no ongoing threat.” The institution canceled classes on Monday after confirming that all victims were students.
University Statement
“Words cannot adequately describe the light these students brought to this world or ease the depth of suffering we feel at their passing under these tragic circumstances,” UofI president Scott Green wrote in a message to students and staff.
The university said it is providing counseling services to students, faculty, and staff. A candlelight vigil has been organized.
The incident occurred the same day as a shooting at the University of Virginia. Before police announced that a 22-year-old suspect, a student, had been apprehended and charged, the campus had been locked down for 12 hours.
The shooter opened fire aboard a charter bus carrying students heading back to the university campus from a field trip. Three college football players were killed in the shooting, and two injured were rushed to the hospital.