Inside the Bryan Kohberger Case: The Idaho Student Murders

What was it like to be the lead prosecutor in the Bryan Kohberger case, with the nation watching your every move? 48 Hours correspondent Peter Van Sant speaks with Latah County prosecutor Bill Thompson who opens up about the immense pressure of the Bryan Kohberger case, the emotional toll, and the controversy surrounding the plea deal. Why was there no requirement for Kohberger to reveal crucial information? And what really happened behind the scenes of the case that gripped the country?

As a judge told Bryan Kohberger he would die in prison, the families of Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves and Xana Kernodle courageously spoke out in court, honoring the lives of their loved ones and speaking openly about the trauma they have endured. The court also heard tearful words from surviving roommates Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke, whose lives were forever changed that night on King Road in Moscow, Idaho. 48 Hours correspondent Peter Van Sant reflects on the emotional day and how people are coming to terms with not knowing the “why” in this case with CBS News legal analyst Mary Fulginiti and Washington State University journalism professor Matt Loveless. This episode was recorded on July 23, 2025.

After a surprise plea deal agreement, Bryan Kohberger appeared in court on Tuesday and admitted to killing four University of Idaho students: Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin.  48 Hours correspondent Peter Van Sant and CBS News legal analyst Mary Fulginiti explain the significance of this latest court hearing and how it has affected the families of the victims. While some support the deal, others feel justice hasn't been served. As for motive, this remains a mystery.

In 2022, four University of Idaho students were brutally murdered, shaking a quiet college town to its core.

Join 48 Hours correspondent Peter Van Sant for his new series, "Inside the Bryan Kohberger Case: The Idaho Student Murders," for everything there is to know about this gripping case. Each week, Peter Van Sant will bring trial updates, expert analysis, and exclusive reporting from inside the courtroom. Follow the twists and turns of one of the most chilling cases in recent memory.