Why are the families suing Washington State University?

The families are suing WSU alleging gross negligence and failure to act on numerous complaints about Bryan Kohberger's stalking and harassing behavior before the murders.

What evidence do the families have against Washington State University?

The lawsuit claims WSU received at least 13 formal complaints about Kohberger's conduct, which they allege the university ignored, demonstrating a pattern of institutional inaction.

When was Bryan Kohberger fired from Washington State University?

Bryan Kohberger was fired from his teaching assistant position at WSU in early December 2022, after the murders occurred but before his arrest.

Home / Crime and Justice / Families Sue WSU: University Ignored Kohberger's Stalking

Families Sue WSU: University Ignored Kohberger's Stalking

9 Jan

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Summary

Families allege WSU ignored numerous complaints about Kohberger's behavior.
Lawsuit claims WSU's gross negligence led to foreseeable tragedy.
University failed to act on 13 formal complaints before killings.

Families Sue WSU: University Ignored Kohberger's Stalking

Families of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin have filed a lawsuit against Washington State University. They accuse the institution of gross negligence, wrongful death, and violating Title IX by allegedly ignoring numerous warnings about Bryan Kohberger's stalking and harassing behavior. The suit contends that WSU administrators failed to intervene despite repeated reports of his misconduct.

According to the lawsuit, Kohberger, a graduate student at WSU, had at least 13 formal complaints filed against him during his single semester. The families' attorneys stated that institutional inaction was evident, with no indication WSU acted decisively on these serious concerns. Women at the university had reportedly feared for their safety and implemented informal warning systems.

WSU fired Kohberger from his teaching assistant position in early December 2022, after the murders but before his arrest, citing professional misconduct. However, the families argue this action was too late. They seek transparency, accountability, and reform from institutions entrusted with student safety, aiming to hold WSU liable for its alleged failure to act on critical warning signs.