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The Bryan Kohberger sentencing hearing took a deeply personal and emotional turn as Bethany Funke, the surviving roommate of murder victims Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, and Xana Kernodle, delivered a powerful victim impact statement. Unable to speak directly, Funke entrusted a friend to convey her chilling account of living with the man who would ultimately become convicted of their brutal murders. Her words painted a picture of constant fear and a lingering sense of vulnerability.

Funke’s statement, read on her behalf, detailed the unsettling feeling she experienced while sharing a house with Kohberger. She described instances of his unsettling behavior, his intense and prolonged observation of the women, and a pervasive sense that she was being watched. “I was scared he would come for me next,” she reportedly stated, a sentiment that resonated deeply within the courtroom and beyond.

The murders of Goncalves, Mogen, and Kernodle in Moscow, Idaho, sent shockwaves through the community and the nation. Kohberger was arrested in late December 2022 after a lengthy investigation that utilized DNA evidence and cell phone data to link him to the crime scene. He was ultimately found guilty of four counts of first-degree murder in December 2023.

Funke’s testimony underscored the profound and lasting impact of the tragedy. Her fear isn’t just a reaction to the events of that night; it’s a constant companion. She spoke of the difficulty in feeling safe, of the hyper-vigilance she now experiences, and the way the murders have fundamentally altered her perception of the world. The statement emphasized that the trauma extends far beyond the immediate families of the victims, impacting those who shared their lives and witnessed the aftermath of the horrific crime.

The courtroom was visibly moved by Funke’s words, which offered a raw and honest portrayal of the psychological toll of living alongside a potential killer. While the sentencing of Bryan Kohberger provides a measure of closure for the victims’ families and the community, Funke’s testimony served as a stark reminder of the enduring pain and fear that remain.

The judge is expected to hand down Kohberger’s sentence in the coming weeks. The legal proceedings have captivated the nation, bringing to light the devastating consequences of violence and the importance of supporting victims and survivors. Funke's bravery in sharing her story highlights the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable tragedy.