Just before Bryan Kohberger’s arrest, his sister expressed concern for his safety, warning him about a “psycho killer” linked to the 2022 University of Idaho murders.

During an interview with The New York Times, Mel Kohberger recounted the time following the tragic events of November 13, 2022, when Ethan Chapin, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Kaylee Goncalves were killed.

She shared that in the aftermath of the murders, worried about her brother’s well-being due to his proximity to the area, she reached out with a heartfelt warning.

“Bryan Kohberger, you are running outside, and this psycho killer is on the loose,” she recalled telling him, emphasizing her plea for caution.

Her anxiety was fueled by Bryan Kohberger’s habits; he was known for taking late-night jogs and often left his home unsecured.

According to Mel, Bryan Kohberger thanked her for the call and assured her he would remain vigilant. 

Then, on December 30, 2022, the FBI raid the Kohberger family’s Pennsylvania home. Mel learned her brother had been arrested, according to what her sister, Amanda, told her during a phone call. 

“She was like, ‘I’m with the FBI. Bryan Kohberger’s been arrested,” Mel recalled. “I was like, ‘For what?’”

“The Idaho murders.”

Mel’s initial reaction was one of disbelief, suspecting a prank, before the reality of the situation caused a physical wave of nausea. She added that the arrest had dismantled her life.

She resigned from a new position she was in training for as a mental health counselor in New Jersey, after the employer became overwhelmed by the media spotlight on her family.

In the wake of the conviction, Mel also faced intense public scrutiny and online accusations suggesting that her family may have harbored suspicions about Bryan Kohberger’s involvement. She vehemently denied the claims, asserting that her moral compass would have led her to act had she known the truth.

“I have always been a person who has spoken up for what was right,” Mel Kohberger said. “If I ever had a reason to believe my brother did anything, I would have turned him in.”

Losing her job and the continued suspicion on her and her family has left Mel feeling victimized and confused. 

“It’s confusing. It’s painful,” Mel said. “It’s like being victimized but not really being a victim.”

As CrimeOnline previously reported, Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty in July to the brutal killings

To avoid the death penalty, Kohberger admitted to fatally stabbing the students at their off-campus home.

The plea deal means Kohberger will serve life in prison without the possibility of parole. He also waived his right to appeal.

Kohberger also pleaded guilty to burglary, which is a 10-year sentence.

[Feature Photo: Bryan Kohberger on December 30, 2022/Moscow Police Department]