Fundraiser for Goncalves family nears $60,000

A GoFundMe account to help Kaylee Goncalves' family attend the trial of her accused killer has raised nearly $60,000. 

“We are in complete awe of all the love and support from everyone,” wrote Kristi Goncalves, Kaylee’s mom. “You all mean the World to us and I wish I could hug each and everyone of you. God bless you all. We will never forget what you all have done for us and we hope we can pay you back one day.” 

The fundraiser was started by family friend Brooke Miller. 

The trial for murder suspect Bryan Kohberger is now scheduled for late summer next year in Boise. It is expected to last about three months. 

Miller wrote they are looking to find a house for rent that will fit all 10 Goncalves family members. They also hope to raise enough money to cover money for meals, loss of work and transportation. 

“Kaylee's family has not missed one hearing or any court appointment since this has started and they would like to continue to attend all of them,” Miller wrote. 

Response to the Goncalves GoFundMe account has been strong, with more than 900 contributions ranging from $5 to thousands of dollars. As of Friday afternoon, the account totaled $59,591.

“That beautiful smile, sending you prayers, you will be in my thoughts,” wrote Teresa McConville. "I am sorry this has happened to your daughter and the other students. Your daughter embraced school and her friends and trusted everything in this world.” 

"There is nothing we can do to bring back your beautiful Kaylee,” wrote Donna Valdez. “I only wish we could. All we can do is come together as far away support for your amazing family and help you in your journey to achieve justice for your unimaginable loss."

Kohberger, 29, is charged in the stabbing deaths of four U of I students at an off-campus home in Moscow in November 2022. The victims were Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle, both 20, and Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves, both 21. 

Kohberger faces four counts of first-degree murder and one count of felony burglary. Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty if he is convicted by a jury. His defense team is challenging a death sentence as a possible punishment for Kohberger, the Associated Press reported. 

Kaylee’s father, Steve Goncalves, was recently interviewed on the Nancy Grace national TV program. 

“Kaylee was a beautiful friend,” he said. “She got along with everyone.”