A survivor of the 2022 University of Idaho murders is asking a judge to maintain redactions on investigative footage that would obscure her face, stating that the release of such material could further endanger her and her family. Dylan Mortensen, 23, has reportedly taken on a new identity and moved nine times since the killings.
Mortensen submitted an affidavit to Judge Megan Marshall, requesting she reconsider a prior decision to release video and images to EWU Media LLC. The footage in question includes police interviews and body-camera recordings from the investigation into the deaths of Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin.
Bryan Kohberger, who has pleaded guilty to the murders, was a suspect in the case. Mortensen had previously told authorities that she saw a masked man in the house around the time of the murders but did not immediately call 911.
In her plea, Mortensen explained that the release of unredacted footage would allow the public greater access to her appearance, mannerisms, and facial expressions during a highly traumatic period. She believes this could fuel further scrutiny and speculation about her involvement in the case, despite her testimony for the prosecution and multiple interviews.
"I am not asking for the interviews or body-camera recordings to be withheld from the public, nor am I for information about the investigation to be hidden," Mortensen wrote in her affidavit. "I am asking the Court to consider what additional information is actually gained by removing the blurring from my face."
Mortensen's attorney, Robyn McPherson, has filed a motion to intervene in the judge's decision, requesting a stay on the release until appeals are resolved. The motion also seeks an in-camera judicial review of the records.
Since the murders in November 2022, Mortensen stated she and her family have faced persistent harassment, threats, and constant speculation. Reporters and individuals investigating the case on their own have reportedly shown up at their homes, followed family members, and invaded their privacy. She has adopted an alias and takes precautions to avoid being photographed or going out alone.
Mortensen also detailed receiving numerous threatening messages from strangers online, some accusing her of participating in the murders or wishing harm upon her. She expressed concern that the unredacted footage could be used by individuals to create new theories about her involvement.
A hearing is scheduled for November 12, with Kohberger due to appear for a hearing on his petition for post-conviction relief on December 10.