Investigators believe that four University of Idaho students found dead in a house near the campus are the victims of a homicide, according to University of Idaho President Scott Green.
At about noon on Sunday, police in Moscow, Idaho, responded to reports of an unconscious person at a home near the university’s golf course on King Road. When the officers arrived they discovered four dead students at the scene.
The Moscow Police Department has called the deaths “homicides,” and on Monday identified the victims as Ethan Chapin, a 20-year-old from Conway, Washington; Madison Mogen, a 21-year-old from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; Xana Kernodle, 20, from Avondale, Arizona; and Kaylee GonCalves, 21, from Rathdrum, Idaho.
Police did not share the students’ causes of death.
Shortly after the discovery, police issued a shelter-in-place order for nearby residents but later determined there was not an active threat and lifted the order. Police said they don’t have a suspect in custody.
All four students were living off campus at the time, though Green said the impact is still being felt on campus.
“An event of this magnitude can understandably have significant impacts on those left behind. As Vandals, we must come together and lift each other up,” Green said. “ Out of respect for these fellow Vandals, classes statewide and online are canceled Monday, Nov. 14. All campuses remain open. Classes will resume Tuesday, Nov. 15. “
Green says that counseling is being made available to students who are emotionally impacted by what happened and that the friends and family of the deceased have been notified.
Rep. Mike Simpson (R-Idaho), who represents the area where the students were discovered, wrote on Twitter that he and his wife Kathy are mourning the deaths of the students alongside their loved ones.
“Kathy and I send our deepest condolences to the families of these four students—our hearts ache for your loss,” Simpson said. “Today we are all Vandals.”
Authorities are expected to release more information as the investigation continues and are asking for the public’s help. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Moscow Police Department at 208-882-COPS.
