James Patterson and Vicky Ward’s upcoming book, “The Idaho Four: An American Tragedy,” set to be released on July 14, delves into the chilling murders of four university students in Moscow, Idaho, in November 2022. The narrative focuses on the lives of the victims: Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin, while also providing detailed insights into the killer, Bryan Kohberger, a criminology PhD student who recently pleaded guilty, avoiding a trial and the death penalty.
The book paints a vivid picture of the aftermath of the tragic events and the impact it had on the neighboring college towns of Moscow and Pullman, Washington, which, despite their cultural differences, demonstrated a united front in the face of a serious crime. During a time when the investigation seemed stalled, the Moscow Police Department maintained strict confidentiality to avoid compromising the case. Their breakthrough came when investigative genetic genealogy techniques enabled law enforcement to identify Kohberger as the suspect after months of analysis.
An intriguing excerpt reveals how communication between police chiefs from both towns unfolded during this critical period. WSU Police Chief Gary Jenkins receives a secretive call from Moscow Police Chief James Fry, alerting him to the discovery of the suspect residing within WSU housing. The tension is palpable as it becomes evident that Kohberger, who had previously sought an internship with the Pullman Police Department, had personal ties to the area. This connection prompted Jenkins to reflect on his past interactions with Kohberger, wherein a potential hiring decision had been reconsidered, leading to a collective sigh of relief.
Through the lens of the investigation and the relationships forged between law enforcement agencies, the book highlights the collaborative efforts that culminated in identifying the suspect. It serves as a reminder that justice, while sometimes delayed, can emerge through determination and innovative investigative techniques.
As the book recounts not only the tragedy but also the resilience of the community, it promotes a sense of hope that the efforts by law enforcement and the wider community may lead to healing for those affected by these devastating events.