Idaho Murder Victim Ethan Chapin: The Tragic Story of a Triplet’s Death
-campus home near the University of Idaho in 2022. The family of Ethan Chapin, one of the victims, shared their heartbreaking story in a new documentary called “One Night in Idaho: The College Murders,” which premiered on July 11.
Ethan Chapin, a triplet, lived in the house where the tragic incident took place with his girlfriend, Xana Kernodle. Along with Ethan, three other students, Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, and Xana Kernodle, were all found dead with stab wounds. The perpetrator, Bryan Kohberger, was arrested six weeks later and charged with four counts of murder and one count of burglary. He pleaded guilty to all charges on July 2 and will face sentencing on July 23.
Hunter Chapin, Ethan’s brother and a fellow University of Idaho student, described how he found out about his brother’s death. He woke up to the news from a fraternity brother and rushed to the house, where he learned the devastating truth from friends sitting outside. The shock and disbelief of losing his brother were captured in the documentary, as Hunter struggled to comprehend the reality of the situation.
The entire Chapin family, including Ethan’s sister Maizie and parents Stacy and Jim, were deeply affected by his untimely death. Stacy Chapin recounted the moment she learned about Ethan’s passing, a heart-wrenching experience that she shared with her husband Jim as they rushed to Moscow upon hearing the news.
In memory of Ethan Chapin, the family established the Ethan’s Smile Foundation, which provides scholarships in his honor. Stacy Chapin appeared on TODAY in 2023, emphasizing the positive impact Ethan had on the lives of those around him. The foundation serves as a tribute to Ethan’s memory and the lasting legacy he left behind.
The story of Ethan Chapin’s tragic death is a poignant reminder of the preciousness of life and the enduring love of family. Through their grief, the Chapin family honors Ethan’s spirit by continuing to make a difference in his name.
