Discovering the Lives of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin, and Xana Kernodle

Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and her boyfriend Ethan Chapin, 20, were vibrant students at the University of Idaho who resided in an off-campus apartment, creating lasting memories and friendships during their college years. These young individuals were not just students; they were full of life, dreams, and aspirations, contributing to the rich tapestry of campus life.

On the fateful night of November 12, 2022—the eve before their tragic discovery—Goncalves and Mogen enjoyed their evening at a popular local sports bar, while Kernodle and Chapin attended a lively fraternity party. By 2 a.m. on November 13, the four roommates, along with Chapin, returned to the three-story rental house they called home, unaware of the events that were about to unfold.

Kaylee Goncalves was a dedicated senior majoring in general studies at the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences. With graduation anticipated in December, she had exciting plans to relocate to Austin, Texas, to begin her new career at a marketing firm, a detail shared by her friend Jordyn Quesnell in an interview with The New York Times.

Madison Mogen, studying marketing, was not only a classmate but also the best friend of Goncalves since the sixth grade. She envisioned moving to Boise after graduation, as family friend Jessie Frost conveyed to The Idaho Statesman, highlighting the strong bonds and future plans they shared.

Xana Kernodle was a junior pursuing a major in marketing, as confirmed by the University at that time. She and her boyfriend Chapin—who was majoring in recreation, sport, and tourism management—had been in a relationship since the spring, a connection that was warmly noted by their neighbor Ellie McKnight during her conversation with NBC News.