A newly released surveillance video has added another layer to one of the most shocking murder cases in recent US history. The footage shows the accused, Bryan Kohberger, calmly visiting a licensing office just days after the brutal killings of four college students. His behaviour in the video has raised serious questions about his state of mind during that time.
What the New Video Shows
The video was recorded on November 18, 2022, at a licensing office in Pullman, Washington. In the footage, Kohberger is seen entering the office and requesting new license plates for his white Hyundai Elantra.
At the time, he had recently moved from Pennsylvania and was living in Pullman as a graduate student. The vehicle had earlier been registered in Pennsylvania, and the visit resulted in a new Washington plate number being issued.
What stands out in the video is his behaviour. Reports say he appeared relaxed, smiling, and even laughing while talking casually with a staff member. He reportedly made small talk about the area and sports, showing no visible signs of stress.
However, when the topic of the recent murders came up, his behaviour reportedly changed. He became quiet and quickly avoided discussing the subject. Observers also noted that he kept wearing gloves during the entire interaction and looked around the office from time to time.
Details of the Idaho Murders
The case is linked to the tragic killing of four students near the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho.
The victims were:
- Kaylee Goncalves
- Madison Mogen
- Xana Kernodle
- Ethan Chapin
On November 13, 2022, the victims were attacked inside their off-campus rental home. Investigators believe the attacker entered during the early morning hours and moved through multiple floors, targeting the victims in their bedrooms.
Autopsy reports confirmed that each victim suffered multiple stab wounds. Some had defensive injuries, suggesting they tried to fight back. A knife sheath found at the scene later provided key DNA evidence.
How Investigators Identified the Suspect
One of the most important clues in the case was a white Hyundai Elantra seen near the crime scene. Investigators tracked the vehicle through records and linked it to Kohberger.
A campus police officer at Washington State University identified him as a possible owner of the vehicle. This helped narrow down the investigation.
Later, DNA evidence found on the knife sheath reportedly matched Kohberger, strengthening the case against him.
Arrest and Legal Outcome
By the time authorities asked the public for help in locating the vehicle, Kohberger had already travelled back to Pennsylvania with his father.
He was arrested on December 30, 2022. At the time, he was a criminology PhD student at Washington State University.
Kohberger was later charged with:
- Four counts of first-degree murder
- One count of burglary
He eventually pleaded guilty and, in July 2025, was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Why the License Plate Change Matters
Prosecutors believe that Kohberger’s visit to the licensing office to change his license plates was not just routine. They argue that it may have been an attempt to avoid being identified, especially since the vehicle had already been seen near the crime scene.
The timing of the visit, just five days after the murders, has made this detail particularly important in understanding his actions after the crime.
