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

The tragic story of Kaylee Goncalves (21), Madison Mogen (21), Xana Kernodle (20), and her boyfriend Ethan Chapin (20) is one that has captivated many, as they were vibrant students at the University of Idaho living together in an off-campus apartment. Their lives were filled with aspirations and dreams, yet their untimely deaths have left a community in shock.

On the fateful night of November 12, 2022, just hours before their bodies were discovered, Goncalves and Mogen enjoyed a lively evening at a nearby sports bar, while Kernodle and Chapin attended a fraternity gathering. By around 2 a.m. on November 13, the four friends returned to their three-story rental house, blissfully unaware of the tragedy that was about to unfold.

Kaylee Goncalves was a dedicated senior majoring in general studies at the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences. She was on track to graduate in December, with aspirations to relocate to Austin, Texas, for a promising position at a marketing firm, as shared by her close friend Jordyn Quesnell in a statement to The New York Times.

Madison Mogen, who was also in her final year studying marketing, had been the best friend of Goncalves since the sixth grade. With dreams of moving to Boise after graduation, her familial connections were strong, as revealed by family friend Jessie Frost in an interview with The Idaho Statesman.

Xana Kernodle, a junior focused on a marketing degree, was known for her vibrant personality. At the time, she was dating Chapin, who was majoring in recreation, sport, and tourism management. Their relationship blossomed since the spring, as shared by their neighbor, Ellie McKnight, during a report by NBC News.