Goncalves family 'beyond furious' at Bryan Kohberger plea deal

(NewsNation) — Following Bryan Kohberger's acceptance of a plea deal, the family of one of the victims has reacted angrily.

NewsNation sources can confirm the prosecution has proposed dropping the death penalty in exchange for Kohberger pleading guilty to committing the murders and to a burglary charge.

Among the four victims was Kaylee Goncalves, who was 21 years old at the time of her death in November 2022.

In a statement on Facebook minutes after news broke of the deal, "The Goncalves Family Page" wrote:

"It's true! We are beyond furious at the State of Idaho. They have failed us. Please give us some time. This was very unexpected. We appreciate all your love and support. #heartbroken #kayleejade4ever."

A family member of one victim told NewsNation that upon hearing of the plea deal, she felt like "all the power had been given back to Kohberger."

Many families of the victims had planned on living in Boise, Idaho, for the duration of the trial.

Family members tell NewsNation they had no indication of a plea deal being offered and say they are shocked and have more questions, including whether Kohberger will confess to the killings.

NewsNation has learned Kohberger must also agree to spend the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of parole and must waive his right to appeal.

A court hearing for a change of plea will be on Wednesday.

NewsNation's Brian Entin contributed to this report.