The Moscow Police Department sent out a warning on Friday to online sleuths and internet detectives who have spread a “large amount of rumors” surrounding the unsolved stabbings of four University of Idaho students.
“Investigators have been monitoring online activity related to this ongoing and active case and are aware of the large amount of rumors and misinformation being shared as well as harassing and threatening behavior toward potentially involved parties,” MPD said in a statement.
“Anyone engaging in threats or harassment whether in person, online or otherwise needs to understand that they could be subjecting themselves to criminal charges,” the statement continued.
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Police are wary of theories being spread online as the city concludes its fourth week of investigations into the quadruple slayings of students Xana Kernodle, Ethan Chapin, Kaylee Goncalves, and Madison Mogen that occurred on Nov. 13. Two other students survived the attacks and have since been cleared as suspects by police.
Social media has blown up in recent weeks with true crime groups who have seemingly taken the matter into their own hands — including groups on Facebook, Reddit, Discord, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and more, according to reports.
While some are monitored and warn members not to share personal information or name names, others are not. But police warn that the theories have led to harassment of unnamed parties.
“Moscow Police Department cautions the public not to rely on rumors and remains committed to keeping the public informed,” the Friday police statement read.
Thus far, no suspects have been named in the investigation, and no weapon has been recovered, prompting frustration from parents on the slow nature of the investigation.
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MPD did reach out to the community earlier this week, asking for help to track down a vehicle of interest.
A white 2011-2013 Hyundai Elantra was listed as potentially involved since it was in the area when the stabbings took place last month, but no other details were provided.
“Your information, whether you believe it is significant or not, might be the piece of the puzzle that helps investigators solve these murders,” the press release read.
The information can be shared with the tip line at 208-883-7180 or in an email to [email protected].
