Xana Kernodle’s Dad Gets Emotional About Not Going to Daughter’s House on Night of Idaho Murders: ‘Things Would Have Been Different’

Four young lives were tragically cut short in a brutal stabbing incident that occurred at an off-campus residence in Moscow, Idaho, on 13 November 2022. The victims, Xana Kernodle, 20, her boyfriend Ethan Chapin, also 20, and their close friends Kaylee Goncalves and Madison Mogen, both 21, were discovered with fatal injuries in their home. The incident shocked the local community and garnered national attention.

The perpetrator, Bryan Kohberger, a former Ph.D. student in criminology at Washington State University, was arrested more than a month after the murders. In July 2025, he entered a guilty plea as part of a deal with prosecutors, which ensured he would avoid the death penalty. The heartfelt approach taken by the victims’ families revealed deep pain and frustration surrounding the case.

Jeff Kernodle, Xana’s father, recounted his emotions following the news of the tragedy. He had considered visiting his daughter that night while attending a football game at Washington State University but ultimately decided against it. In a candid moment, Kernodle reflected on his decision during a Netflix docuseries detailing the events surrounding the murders. “I should give Xana a call and maybe I’ll just go over and stay at her house tonight,” he revealed, expressing regret that he did not follow through, suggesting that perhaps if he had, the outcome might have been different.

Upon learning about Kohberger’s arrest, Kernodle experienced an additional layer of shock: Kohberger attended the same university as his other daughter, Jazzmin. “I flipped out and wished Jazzmin wouldn’t have been still staying there at that school,” he admitted, although he found some solace in knowing that Kohberger had been apprehended.

In a remarkable turn of events, Kohberger later sought to withdraw his guilty plea, citing claims of “ineffective counsel” and stating that he was not adequately informed of potential evidence that could have supported his case. This legal move has raised concerns among the victims’ families, especially given the nature of Kohberger’s plea deal, which many believe should have required full disclosure of his motives behind the heinous act.

Kernodle expressed his disbelief at the possibility of Kohberger receiving a new trial, emphasising that the man who took his daughter’s life should provide answers. “He shouldn’t have got one. He should have to tell them why he did it,” he stated, highlighting a longing for closure and understanding in the midst of ongoing grief.

Steve Goncalves, Kaylee’s father, echoed similar sentiments regarding Kohberger’s recent actions, labelling him as “the mosquito you can’t seem to swat.” Reflecting on Kohberger’s claim of “actual innocence,” Goncalves was resolute about his family’s readiness to face whatever the legal outcome might be. “Regardless of how this turns out, our family is 100% ready,” he insisted, showcasing a determination to see justice served.

Following the events surrounding the case, the victims’ families have continued to advocate for awareness about the impact of violent crime on communities and the importance of accountability within the justice system. The public’s desire for justice remains as strong as ever, with many still reeling from the violent loss of these young individuals.

The Netflix docuseries, titled “The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare,” reflects the tragedy and complexity of the situation, with the first episode premiering on July 29, drawing viewers into the pain and sorrow experienced by those left behind after the grisly incident. As the legal battles continue, the legacy of Xana, Ethan, Madison, and Kaylee serves as a poignant reminder of the lives forever altered by violence, prompting calls for deeper discussions about safety and justice in university towns across the country.