Sister warned Bryan Kohberger about 'psycho killer' on the loose before his arrest: 'Be careful'

Published: Sunday, January 4, 2026 at 12:22 am

Sister Warned Bryan Kohberger About "Psycho Killer" Before Arrest

In a recent interview with *The New York Times*, Mel Kohberger, the younger sister of Bryan Kohberger, recounted a chilling conversation she had with her brother before his arrest in connection with the murders of four University of Idaho students. Kohberger, who has since pleaded guilty to the murders of Ethan Chapin, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Kaylee Goncalves on November 13, 2022, was warned by his sister to be cautious of a "psycho killer" who was reportedly on the loose.

Mel, concerned after hearing about the murders, told her brother, "Bryan, you are running outside and this psycho killer is on the loose. Be careful." Bryan, known to go on late-night jogs and leave his door unlocked, assured her he would be safe.

The interview also shed light on Kohberger's past. Mel described her brother as having been bullied as a teenager and struggling with heroin addiction. She recalled an incident where he stole her phone to buy drugs. However, she also noted that he had received treatment and was doing better, leading the family to believe he had overcome his struggles.

Mel stated that she never perceived Bryan as a violent person, despite his social awkwardness. She also revealed that Bryan did not discuss the Idaho murders while staying at their parents' home before his arrest. The arrest on December 30, 2022, came as a shock to Mel, who initially dismissed the news as a prank. The revelation that her brother was a suspect in the murders turned her world upside down.

Mel, who was preparing to start a job as a mental health counselor, was forced to step down due to the intense public scrutiny. She expressed anger at online speculation that her family may have known about Bryan's involvement in the murders, emphasizing that she would have reported him if she had any reason to believe he was responsible.

BNN's Perspective:

This case highlights the devastating impact of violent crime on families. While the details of Kohberger's past are disturbing, it's important to remember the victims and the profound grief their families continue to endure. The sister's account underscores the complexities of human behavior and the difficulty in predicting such horrific acts.

Keywords: Bryan Kohberger, Idaho murders, Mel Kohberger, sister, psycho killer, University of Idaho, Ethan Chapin, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, Kaylee Goncalves, arrest, heroin addiction, mental health counselor, New York Times, crime, investigation

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