The Idaho Massacre

By iHeartPodcasts

On November 13, 2022, four students from the University of Idaho are brutally stabbed to death in an off-campus house. After a lengthy investigation and cross-country manhunt, a Ph.D. student from a neighboring university is charged with the crimes. As it turns out, the 28-year-old was majoring in criminology, studying the behavior of killers like the ones he would later be accused of becoming. Did he use his skills to become a real-life Dexter? Were the Idaho victims his first, or was a serial

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Episodes

26:04

Listener Questions

Three years. Three Seasons. Countless questions. In this final episode, the Idaho Massacre team reflect on this case of loss and resilience—and the listeners who have followed every development.

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26:05

After the Headlines

In the quiet aftermath of an unthinkable tragedy, the town of Moscow, at the center of the nation’s attention, continues to heal. Through the voices of those who led, grieved, and reported from the heart of the story, this episode examines how a clos

27:40

The Chronicles of Goncalves

When independent journalist Olivia Vitale — known online as The Chronicles of Olivia — began covering the murders at 1122 King Road, she had no idea how personal the story would become. What began as a reporting trip to Idaho turned into something un

29:27

Sheath of Evidence

Groundbreaking DNA technology from forensic lab Othram helped identify Bryan Kohberger in the Idaho murders. Forensic investigative genetic genealogy is now revolutionizing criminal investigations — solving cold cases, catching previously untraceable

25:05

Behind the Badge

Idaho State Police Detective Hugh Powell takes us behind the scenes of one of the most complex investigations in recent memory — the search for answers after the tragedy on King Road. From the earliest hours of the case to the painstaking weeks that

25:16

The Incel Theory

Exploring the questions and separating fact from speculation around Bryan Kohberger's actions and any potential connection to the incel community. Sociologist Michael Kimmel and other experts examine factors—like isolation, frustration, and online in

27:11

Behind Bars

Bryan Kohberger has begun serving his sentence at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution, a prison known for its unforgiving conditions. Hear an inside look at his daily life at IMSI, the challenges he faces, and what his future behind bars may hold.

25:33

Strange Behavior

Hundreds of newly released police files reveal chilling details about Bryan Kohberger’s life before the murders — accounts of awkward interactions, unsettling classroom behavior, and strained relationships. Behavioral experts weigh in on the patterns

25:23

The Interview

Washington State University Police Chief Gary Jenkins recalls his unsettling first encounter with Kohberger during a police internship interview, offering rare insight into his demeanor before the crimes. Newly released documents reveal suspicious in

26:29

The Unsealed Files

Newly unsealed files from the Idaho student murders reveal chilling details — from the victims’ final moments to shocking witness statements. What do these documents uncover about Bryan Kohberger’s motive, movements that night, and the mistakes that

29:22

Sentencing

In July 2025, the families of Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin finally faced convicted killer Bryan Kohberger in court. In powerful victim impact statements, they spoke of grief, fury, and resilience—while the world wa

29:09

The Plea Deal

After nearly three years in silence, Bryan Kohberger shocks the nation—pleading guilty just weeks before his death penalty trial, trading the shadow of execution for a life behind bars.

 

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32:42

Listener Questions

We dive into your most pressing questions, offering insights, and discussions in this special episode dedicated entirely to answering listener questions.

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32:23

Those Left Behind

In the wake of tragedy, countless victims are left behind.

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36:24

Boots on the Ground

Embedded in Moscow to report on the massacre, a journalist uncovers much more than she anticipated and we explore the controversial Christ Church and its possible effect on the case. 

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41:21

Obsession

We explore the phenomena of women obsessed with men behind bars and look at how pop culture and horror films shape our society.

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26:31

Change of Venue

We unpack the most hotly contested pre-trial hearings to date.

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39:59

Mind of a Murderer

We take a deep dive into the many factors believed to shape the mind of a murderer. 

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42:06

Pings and DNA Admissibility

We discuss the cell phone pings and DNA evidence at the center of this case, from admissibility to potential impact during trial. 

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42:14

When the Night Comes Falling

An in-depth interview with bestselling author, Howard Blum who just released a book sharing his controversial perspective on the case. 

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31:12

Hamster Wheel of Justice

We break down what the sentence of death means in The State of Idaho vs Bryan Kohberger and experts weigh in on the accused's stunning alibi. 

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31:12

In Class with Kohberger

In an exclusive interview, a former student at Washington State University breaks down what it was like having Bryan Kohberger as her Teacher’s Assistant for her criminology course, both leading up to and after the murders.

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31:00

Murder House

In the wake of one of the largest investigations in the state of Idaho, all sides are heated over the fate of the scene of the crime: Is it a stain on Moscow that should be demolished or the biggest piece of evidence that should stay standing?

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32:15

Nightmare in Moscow

Since the November 13, 2022 murders of four Idaho college students, much new information has been uncovered. The producers of The Piketon Massacre explore it all.

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57:47

A Discussion Part Il

Producers Stephanie Lydecker and Conor Powell talk with forensic death investigator Joseph Scott Morgan about the latest information on the murders.

 

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34:31

A Discussion Part I

In this episode, producers Stephanie Lydecker and Conor Powell talk with Inside Edition reporter Chris Spargo about the recent filings from the case. 

 

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29:03

Building a Defense: Conclusion of Season 1

Bryan Kohberger has said he looks forward to being exonerated. In the final episode of The Idaho Massacre, his defense team begins to lay out their strategy to prove his innocence.

 

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29:37

Life or Death

The prosecution decides to pursue the death penalty against Bryan Kohberger.  The move triggers a series of legal maneuvers by both the defense and prosecution that could impact the trial.

 

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31:20

The Circus of Murder

The murders of four University of Idaho students captured the nation’s attention in the winter of 2022. Could the media circus surrounding the investigation impact the case against Bryan Kohberger?

 

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36:47

In the Dark

Is a killer born or made? Is there anything in Bryan Kohberger’s background that could point to him becoming a killer or the potential murderer in this crime?

 

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35:39

The Hunt

How did Bryan Kohberger go from just a name on a list of owners of White Hyundai Elantras to the suspect in the University of Idaho Murders? And what role did a new DNA method play in capturing him for the crime?

 

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28:51

The Days After Death

Latah County prosecutors claim Bryan Kohberger attempted to conceal his movements in the hours around the gruesome University of Idaho murders. What exactly did he do in the hours and days after the crime? And what did he do in the days before?

 

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31:43

Cracks in the Narrative

Police say they have arrested the University of Idaho killer, but how concrete is the case against Bryan Kohberger? Are investigators overlooking information that could prove Kohberger’s innocence? 

 

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34:58

In Search of A Connection

From the start, investigators described the brutal murders at the University of Idaho as a targeted attack. But what connection, if any, is there between a Phd graduate student and four undergraduate coeds? 

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26:36

The Face of Fear

Six days after his arrest, Bryan Kohberger makes his first court appearance. How did a little known, mild mannered, graduate student become the only criminal suspect in a quadruple homicide? What in his background could explain his actions? 

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37:26

Murders on King Road

In the early hours of November 13th, 2022, four University of Idaho students in the prime of their lives, were found brutally stabbed to death in an off-campus residence. The news of the murders sent shockwaves through the close, tight-knit community

1:02:08

The Verdict Is In

As the trial draws to a close, George Wagner IV awaits the verdict that will determine his fate. The tight-knit community of Pike County braces itself for the inevitable fallout, as the outcome of the trial will undoubtedly have far-reaching conseque

56:18

George Wagner’s Final Day on the Stand

After years of speculation, the motivations behind the Rhoden murders may finally be revealed as George Wagner IV's testimony and intense cross-examination comes to a close.

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31:38

George Wagner Takes the Stand Part II

George Wagner IV’s bombshell testimony continues. Will we finally uncover where the truth lies?

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30:11

George Wagner Takes the Stand

We’ve heard from experts, family members, and other insiders, but now for the first time ever we hear directly from accused murderer George Wager IV. Will his testimony sway the jury?

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32:57

Angela Wagner Takes the Stand Part II

As Angela Wagner’s testimony continues, she drops more bombshells on the stand that give us a glimpse at the night in question and its fallout.

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39:40

Angela Takes the Stand

What sort of mother would help her family plan the murder of 8 people? We’ve spent years speculating on Angela Wagner’s role in the Rhoden murders, but as she takes the stand, her story leaves us all shocked.

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32:38

Jake Wagner On the Stand

In possibly the biggest moment of the trial thus far, accused murderer George Wagner IV’s brother, Jake takes the stand and tells a stunned courtroom the details we’ve all been waiting for.

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40:38

The Elizabeth Journals

We’ve heard about Jake Wagner's wife Elizabeth before, but now the Alaska wife testifies and she’s not holding back. As one of the most mysterious figures in this story takes center stage, new information will change the course of the trial.

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26:40

Relevancy

More former Wagner allies take the stand to reveal the complex and sometimes disturbing relationships between the accused family. Will this information tie back to accused murderer, George Wagner IV?

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27:51

Just Like the Movies

For years, the Wagners were shrouded in mystery, but now family insiders take the stand providing invaluable insight into their complex dynamics. Also joining us is a founding board member of the Innocence Project and host of the podcast, Wrongful Co

34:36

The Matriarch Speaks

The now-admitted murderer, Angela Wagner spent years denying her involvement in the massacre with a carefully crafted cover story. As the trial against George Wagner IV continues, the prosecution brings in taped interviews with the defendant’s mother

34:41

The Digital Trail

When it came to covering up their alleged involvement in the Rhoden murders, the Wagners seemingly had an answer for every question. However, as we come to find out, cell phone data may prove to be their undoing. 

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30:59

Closing in on the Wagners

In this episode, we’re given the stunning opportunity to hear from accused father, Billy Wagner. But just how do these shocking recordings play into the case against his son, George Wagner IV?

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32:49

The Many Faces of George

Thus far in the trial, we have heard a lot about the complicated and sometimes disturbing Wagner family dynamics, but now the accused becomes the focus of witness testimony. What can we learn from those who knew George Wagner IV the best?

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27:02

In Their Own Words

With the trial ramping up, we hear a shocking first-hand account of what it was like to live with the Wagner family. How does the jury react and will George Wagner IV’s defense be able to combat this seemingly damning testimony?

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30:36

Connecting the Dots

Without DNA evidence, the prosecution is honing in on ballistics as a critical key in the case against George Wagner IV. Our experts dissect crucial moments from the trial and how they may shape the remaining legal proceedings. The looming question r

32:51

A Family Torn

With details about the Wagner family continuing to come out in court, shocking testimony from Rhoden loved ones put the tragedy in a new light. Our team of experts continue to break down the case as it stands.

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35:26

Every Body Has A Story

For years we’ve only heard rumblings about the ways in which the Rhoden family were murdered in their homes, but now as the lead coroner takes the stand we finally learn all the details. With our team of experts, which includes leading forensic inves

38:35

Mountains of Evidence

With eight crime scenes, the prosecution sets out to present thousands of pieces of evidence to the jury. The KT Studios’ team alongside journalists, legal officials, and forensic experts analyze the state’s case against George Wagner. Is the prosecu

30:19

Mourning at the Church

Kenneth Rhoden was the eighth victim found, hours after the rest of the family. With immense bravery and poise on the witness stand, Kenneth's son Luke and his cousin Donald walk the jurors through the events of that harrowing day. 

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26:12

Devil in the Details

As George Wagner’s trial continues we’re getting an even more detailed glimpse at the shocking crimes and the alleged planning that went into them. In this episode, we hear from first responders, initial investigators, and unpack the detailed forensi

33:07

Con Artists & Liars

As George Wagner’s trial continues, the defense makes their opening statements, giving us a first glimpse at the accused murderer’s side of the story. What do his lawyers have to say and how will it affect the rest of the trial?

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37:13

Opening Statements

The trial against George Wagner has been over 6 years in the making. As the prosecution finally makes their opening statements, shocking details about the crime are revealed. The KT Studios team analyzes every major moment.  

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28:58

On the Eve Of...

The Piketon Massacre is back. On the precipice of the largest trial in Pike County’s history, experts and locals weigh in on what is sure to be a courtroom showdown for the ages.

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31:37

The Piketon Massacre Live: CrimeCon Q&A

The KT Studios team was asked to speak on a panel at CrimeCon Las Vegas. This episode is a live conversation and Q & A from the event where we discuss the murders, the arrests and everything in between.

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29:55

House On A Hill

Our investigation into the Rhoden murders has taken us down many different dark and twisted roads, but as we get closer to George Wagner’s trial, we’re finally able to piece some of this mysterious puzzle together. 

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35:26

Cold Blooded

During our research into the Rhoden murders, we’ve uncovered numerous other unsolved cases in and around Pike County. This week our team looks into how all of these mysteries, locations and the officials involved in the investigations may be connecte

30:25

Manner of Life

As we’ve covered the tragedy, much has been said about the accused family, the investigation and the court appearances, but this week we explore the victims. For the first time, we’re talking with two Rhoden family members who have never spoken publi

32:44

Breadcrumbs

With more and more information about the Wagner trials becoming public, we examine the first DNA evidence the state has made public against the alleged killer family. How will this evidence come into play once George and Billy Wagner enter the courtr

35:20

Trial and Error

As George and Billy Wager await their trials, locals anxiously await justice and grapple with understanding the increasingly complicated legal proceedings. Our team of experts examines and breaks down the evidence as well as what the trials could loo

32:14

One Eyed Wolf

With George Wagner’s trial looming, key evidence against the man accused of helping to plot and kill 8 members of the Rhoden family is coming into focus. Outside of the courtroom, we’ve learned that for those closest to him, coming to terms with who

32:25

State of Ohio vs. George Wagner IV

As the eldest Wagner son prepares to start his trial, there are two key motions that will seemingly play a large part in the case. In this episode, we examine what those are and how they could affect George Wagner’s upcoming court proceedings. 

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30:23

The Alaska Wife and The Father Figure

There are two other members of the Wagner family that haven’t received as much attention but play integral parts in the complex case. This week we explore the Wagner patriarch and the woman Jake Wagner married while in Alaska. Could uncovering truths

28:56

Monsters

While we’ve heard the details about the 2016 murder of the Rhoden family, little has been uncovered about the accused family…until now. With never before heard, first-hand accounts of the Wagner family’s dynamics, interactions and personalities, we b

37:33

Mother May I?

In 2016, eight members of the Rhoden family were brutally murdered in their homes. The crimes divided the small community of Pike County and spawned a mystery that spanned five years. For two seasons, The Piketon Massacre covered the case, which incl

54:30

How We Got Here- Seasons 1 & 2 Recap

Looking to get caught up on the intersection between the Rhoden and Wagner families as well as everything we’ve learned about the complex case before the season 3 premiere? In this episode we revisit the tragic story of the Rhoden family as well as t

25:42

Episode 12- Bonus Episode: Crime & Media

From television and film, to podcasts and books, the true-crime genre is exploding across seemingly all media platforms. On a special bonus episode of the Piketon Massacre: Return to Pike County, we take an in-depth look at the popularity of true-cri

25:18

Finale: What’s Next?

A trial date for accused brother George Wagner has been set for April 4th, 2022, in the Rhoden murder case. But, what will happen in the next few months, remains to be seen. In the season two finale, we answer the most pressing listener questions wit

26:51

Hopper Road

A Rhoden family member puts us in touch with a friend whose family was struck by a tragic double murder. In episode ten, Piketon resident, Angie Montgomery, recounts the story of her cousin, Curtis Francis and his fiancée, Jennifer Burgette's murders

27:28

25 Miles South Part 2

Pike County is no stranger to misconduct by local officials, as is seen in the case of former Pike County Sheriff, Charlie Reader. In part two of 25 Miles South, reporter Nikki Blankenship picks up where she left off in episode seven - exploring alle

28:43

A Pike County Roundtable

Two months after Jake Wagner pled guilty to killing five of the eight Rhodens, accused brother George Wagner IV heads back to court for a pre-trial hearing. In episode eight, we catch up with regular Piketon Massacre contributors, Angenette Levy, Jod

24:04

25 Miles South

About 30 minutes away from Piketon is Portsmouth, Ohio, a once bustling community that fell on hard times and became the epicenter of the Opioid crisis. In episode seven, we talk to local journalist, Nikki Blankenship, who did a deep investigation in

35:09

The Victims Need a Voice

At the time of the Rhoden murders, Chris Graves was working as a reporter for the Cincinnati Enquirer. As she began covering the story she had no idea what would transpire in Pike County. In episode six, we sit down exclusively with her as she recoun

30:14

To Protect & Serve

The man who helped lead Ohio’s largest criminal investigation, Sheriff Charlie Reader went from being a well-liked public figure to finding himself at the center of a very different crime- one that placed him on the other side of the law. In episode

34:29

The Houses on Union Hill Road

It’s been described as the most gruesome, complicated and long-lingering homicide cases the state of Ohio has ever seen. In episode four, alongside forensic expert, Joseph Morgan we look at the varying evidence that is sure to shape the upcoming tria

41:17

Wagner vs. Wagner

In episode three, we focus on the impact that Jake Wagner’s confession could have on his mother, father and older brother. Additionally, we unpack the current state of their trials and the future proceedings that will decide the fate of the family at

39:19

Cinnamon and Hay

Special prosecutors described the Wagners as “cult like.” In episode two, we take a deeper look at the family that’s allegedly behind the massacre, speaking with a Pike County local who has an intimate connection to them. We also dissect the prosecut

37:40

Ties that Bind

A photograph shows the Rhoden and the Wagner families embracing, in happier times. What would tear these families apart and cause a tragedy that would shake a community to its core? Just months before death sentence trials were set to begin and in th

39:10

We Think You'd Like 'Criminalia'

Listen to episode 1 now, featuring a conversation about one of Chicago's most prolific female serial killers

28:07

Episode 10- Wild Country

The most infamous crime that occurred in South Eastern Ohio is the murder of eight members of the Rhoden family. While four members of the Wagner family have been arrested and charged with the murders, the community knows all too well that in this ar

30:32

Piketon Uncovered

With the Wagner family awaiting their day in court, the residents of Piketon are left to wonder how the largest criminal investigation in Ohio’s history will end. In episode nine, we explore unheard topics such as how the community reacted to the new

35:19

Truth Be Revealed

With Fredericka Wagner and Rita Jo Newcomb spared jail time in connection with the Rhoden murders, we turn our focus to the four other family members awaiting their days in court. In episode eight, we look at what life in prison is like for Billy, An

35:14

4,000 Miles Away

With the Wagner family attempting to start a new life in Alaska, the investigation into the Rhoden murders in Piketon, Ohio moves forward. Episode seven tracks authorities’ moves as they narrow in on their suspects. We'll also explore another surpris

31:22

The Investigation

Ohio law enforcement officials spent over two years investigating the Rhoden murders. During that time, they received over 1,100 tips, conducted over 500 interviews and served nearly 200 search warrants. Episode six explores this exhaustive investiga

32:58

Air & Opportunity

In the aftermath of the arrest of six members of the Wagner family in connection with the Rhoden murders, many people across the country were shocked by the brutality of the massacre. But, for the Piketon, Ohio area, this grisly crime wasn’t exactly

31:10

Alternate Theories

On November 13th, 2018, six members of the Wagner family were arrested in connection with the Rhoden family massacre, in Piketon, Ohio. While authorities claim that a custody dispute between Jake Wagner and Hanna Rhoden was the central motive, there

28:26

Hanna and Jake

Four members of the Wagner family are in prison, awaiting death penalty trials for allegedly murdering of eight members of the Rhoden family. Two other family members have been arrested for supposedly conspiring to pull off the crime. In episode thre

26:29

Wagners in Custody

In April 2016, after eight members of the Rhoden family were murdered in their homes, Ohio authorities launched the largest homicide investigation in the state’s history.  For over two years, residents of the small town of Piketon lived in fear, as r

27:50

Daddy's Playing Zombie

On the night of April 21, 2016 eight members of the Rhoden family were murdered in their homes. Episode one explores the crime that decimated an entire family and left residents of the small town of Piketon, OH reeling.