Surviving Roommates of the University of Idaho Murders: Where Are They Now?
In a tragic incident that shook the University of Idaho community, four students were brutally murdered in their off-campus apartment on the evening of Nov. 13, 2022. The victims, Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen, and Kaylee Goncalves, were found stabbed to death, while two of their roommates, Bethany Funke and Dylan Mortensen, were at home unharmed. The surviving roommates immediately called for help upon discovering the gruesome scene.
The perpetrator, Bryan Kohberger, was later apprehended and charged with four counts of first-degree murder and felony burglary. In a shocking turn of events, Kohberger confessed to the killings on July 2, 2025, and pleaded guilty. This led to his sentencing to serve four lifetimes in prison without parole, along with additional years for burglary.
At Kohberger’s sentencing hearing on July 23, 2025, Bethany Funke and Dylan Mortensen delivered emotional victim impact statements, reflecting on the loss of their beloved housemates. Mortensen expressed profound sorrow over the senseless tragedy, emphasising that Kohberger not only took their lives but also extinguished their light from the world.
Following the harrowing events of that fateful night, both Bethany Funke and Dylan Mortensen have been navigating life in the aftermath of the tragedy. Mortensen, in particular, shared her chilling experience of hearing strange noises and encountering a shadowy figure in their residence on the night of the murders. The trauma of that night has left lasting scars on both survivors, impacting their sense of safety and trust.
During Bryan Kohberger’s trial, Funke and Mortensen played crucial roles as eyewitnesses, providing valuable testimony that contributed to building the case against the perpetrator. Mortensen’s account of seeing a masked intruder wearing a balaclava aligned with evidence found at the crime scene, strengthening the prosecution’s case against Kohberger.
In the years since the horrific incident, both Funke and Mortensen have endeavoured to piece their lives back together amidst the trauma and grief. Mortensen’s stepmother revealed that she struggled with survivor’s guilt and eventually transferred to a new school for a fresh start. Similarly, Funke sought solace in academic pursuits and extracurricular activities, such as being nominated as an “ATO sweetheart” at her new university.
As they continue to navigate the complexities of healing and moving forward, Funke and Mortensen have demonstrated immense resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Through their poignant victim impact statements and unwavering courage, they have highlighted the enduring impact of loss and the strength required to survive such traumatic experiences.
In a world forever altered by senseless violence, the stories of Bethany Funke and Dylan Mortensen stand as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unfathomable tragedy. Their unwavering courage and determination to honour the memories of their fallen housemates serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of love and solidarity in times of darkness.