Maddie Mogen’s Legacy: Family Confronts Killer at Sentencing

July 25, 2025: The profound grief and enduring love of Madison Maddie Mogen‘s family echoed through the courtroom on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, as they delivered emotional impact statements to Bryan Kohberger, who confessed to the brutal November 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students. The hearing, which saw statements from Maddie’s father, stepfather, mother, and grandmother, painted a poignant picture of a life tragically cut short and a family grappling with unimaginable loss.

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Ben Mogen, Maddie’s father, expressed gratitude to those who brought the case to a close, acknowledging the difficult resolution. He spoke of Maddie as his “only great thing,” lamenting the future they’d been robbed of. He shared treasured memories, including attending concerts with Maddie and a special Mac Miller show where he secured coveted meet-and-greet tickets. Ben read aloud Maddie’s last Father’s Day card to him, a testament to her loving spirit and her encouragement that helped him overcome addiction. He also reflected on Maddie’s relationship with her boyfriend, Jake, and their visit to a significant place, the Gorge. “I’ll never be able to replace her,” he tearfully stated, expressing his deep love and the immense void she left behind.

Maddie’s stepfather, Scott Laramie, spoke on behalf of himself and Maddie’s mother, Karen Laramie. He described Maddie as “our gift of life, our purpose, and our hope,” highlighting her bright, kind, and empathetic nature. He recalled her easygoing childhood, her love for music, and her dedication to family. Scott emphasized Maddie’s professional aspirations, noting her internship and plans for a marketing career. He articulated the “endless void” left by her loss and the compounding grief for the families of Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. Despite the immense pain, Scott affirmed their commitment to moving forward, not letting grief consume them, and turning their focus to “hope, healing, and helping others.”

Karen Laramie, Maddie’s mother, had her statement read by family attorney Leander James. She thanked her husband, Scott, for his unwavering support and courage. Karen described Maddie as her family’s “hope and light,” whose beauty shone upon everyone she met. She spoke of the defiance of those who commit evil against the sacrifices of those who strive for the greater good. While acknowledging that some might offer forgiveness, Karen firmly stated, “we cannot at this time, or perhaps ever, nor will we ask for mercy for what he has done. His acts are too heinous, the agony and grief he has caused too great.” Like her husband, Karen affirmed their resolve to “move on” for Maddie’s sake, carrying her light into the world.

The emotional testimonies offered a powerful glimpse into the devastating impact of the murders, while also showcasing the Mogen family’s determination to find strength and purpose amidst their profound sorrow.