The Term “Idaho 4”

The phrase “Idaho 4” has become widely used in media reports, social media, and online discussions to refer to the four University of Idaho students whose lives were tragically taken in November 2022. While this shorthand is now common, it’s important to remember that each of these young people was an individual, deeply loved and cherished by their families, friends, and communities.

Who Are the “Idaho 4”?

The victims in this tragedy were:

• Madison “Maddie” Mogen
• Kaylee Goncalves
• Xana Kernodle
• Ethan Chapin

Each had unique dreams, personalities, and stories. They were more than a number or a collective reference; they were daughters, a son, friends, and students whose lives made an impact that will never be forgotten.

The Families’ Perspective

While “Idaho 4” is used for brevity and recognition, some family members have voiced their discomfort with the term. They’ve expressed that the shorthand, while popular, can feel impersonal and diminish the individuality and humanity of their loved ones. As one family member shared, “They are not just ‘the Idaho 4’—they have names.”

Why Using Names Matters

Referring to the victims by their names—Madison, Kaylee, Xana, and Ethan—honors who they were as people. It acknowledges their lives, their contributions, and the grief felt by those who knew them. Using names helps the world remember them as individuals, not just as part of a tragic headline.

Our Commitment

At idahomurdersbryankohberger.com, we strive to balance sensitivity with public understanding. We use the term “Idaho 4” in some places to help people find information, but we are committed to always sharing and centering the victims’ real names and stories. We encourage readers, journalists, and the public to do the same.

Honoring Their Memory

As you read about this case, we invite you to pause and remember Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin—not just as “the Idaho 4,” but as individuals whose lives touched many.