News Summary
The Chapin family mourns their son Ethan, a University of Idaho student murdered in 2022. They have shared their grief while honoring Ethan through scholarships and a documentary. The accused murderer, Bryan Kohberger, will serve a life sentence, and the family emphasizes mental health awareness amid their tragedy.
Moscow, Idaho – The Chapin family continues to mourn the loss of their son, Ethan Chapin, a dedicated student who was murdered at the age of 20 in November 2022, along with three other students from the University of Idaho. Ethan was a triplet hailing from Skagit County, and he was one of the four victims of a tragic stabbing incident that occurred off-campus.
Recently, Bryan Kohberger, the individual accused of the murders, expressed his guilt through a plea deal that ensures he will not go to trial or face the death penalty. Instead, Kohberger will serve a life sentence in prison. His formal sentencing is set to take place later this month, representing a significant juncture in a case that has deeply affected the victims’ families and the broader community.
The Chapin family has openly shared their ongoing pain and how Ethan’s memory permeates their daily lives. They have reflected on cherished moments with Ethan, describing him as the “king of one-liners” who had the ability to uplift those around him. This reflection underscores the deep void left by his absence and the enduring love the family holds for him.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Chapins have also emphasized the importance of mental health and family unity as they navigate their grief. Ethan’s siblings, Mazie and Hunter Chapin, have completed their college education, illustrating their resilience and focus on personal growth despite the harrowing circumstances. Their parents noted their children’s achievements since Ethan’s death, focusing on how they continue to honor his legacy.
In memory of Ethan, the Chapin family established the Ethan’s Smile Foundation, a charitable initiative that has provided scholarships totaling $105,000 to over 90 students. This effort aims to celebrate Ethan’s spirit and contribute positively to the educational journeys of others.
Committed to raising awareness about their son’s story and the profound impact of violence, the Chapins will be featured in an upcoming documentary titled “One Night in Idaho: The College Murders,” which is scheduled to premiere on July 11. The documentary aims to highlight the victims’ experiences and the human toll of the tragedy, countering the prevalent media focus on Kohberger.
Kohberger himself is described by former classmates as socially isolated and detached from societal norms. While he pursued a PhD in criminology, acquaintances noted his peculiar fascination with serial killers, particularly with individuals like Elliot Rodger, who executed a similar violent act motivated by grievances against women. Former classmates recalled Kohberger’s lack of empathy and social skills, branding him as an “oddball,” characteristics that raised concerns about his behavior in social settings.
The Chapin family hopes that the documentary will serve as a conduit for conveying the emotional and psychological consequences of their tragedy. They want to emphasize the importance of recognizing the lives taken and the loved ones left behind, rather than merely focusing on the perpetrator, regardless of his academic accolades. Through their narrative, they aim to shed light on the lasting effects of crime on families and communities.
As the Chapins prepare for the sentencing of Kohberger and the documentary’s release, they remain steadfast in their commitment to honoring Ethan’s memory and sharing their story with the world. Their resolve not only underscores their love for their son but also reflects a desire to advocate for others facing similar grief.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
The Emotional Fallout of a Plea Deal: A Father’s Pain
Columbia High School Soccer Stars Named in All-Area Team
Tim Pearson Takes Charge at Duke Energy in South Carolina
South Carolina Baseball Coaches Association Announces All-State Teams
S.C. Soccer Coaches Association Announces All-State Teams
Tim Pearson Appointed State President of Duke Energy in South Carolina
Voting Open for Boys Athlete of the Week in Midlands
South Carolina Appoints New Duke Energy State President
Judge Allows Death Penalty for Bryan Kohberger in University Murder Case
New Leadership at Duke Energy in South Carolina
Additional Resources
- KTVB: Chapin Family and Bryan Kohberger
- Wikipedia: Ethan Chapin
- Metro Philadelphia: One Night in Idaho Documentary
- Google Search: Idaho Murders
- People: Inside Incel Theory of Idaho Murders
- Google Scholar: Bryan Kohberger
- ABC News: Idaho College Victims
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Idaho Murders
- King 5: Kohberger Trial and Idaho Murders
- Google News: Bryan Kohberger
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
