On Nov. 13, 2022, Steve and Kristi Goncalves’ lives were changed forever by a senseless act of violence. Their daughter Kaylee, and three of her friends, were brutally murdered by Bryan Kohberger at their off-campus house at the University of Idaho.
Genetic genealogy helped the FBI zero in on Kohberger as the perpetrator. And now, Steve and Kristi want to ensure every family has access to modern forensic science capable of identifying perpetrators and delivering answers and justice regardless of their ability to pay for testing.
In honor of Kaylee, Steve and Kristie have launched the “Murder Has a Name” foundation. The soon-to-be non-profit funds advanced forensic DNA testing in violent crime investigations, helping remove financial barriers so cases can benefit from the most modern technology available.
The foundation is based on partnerships.
“No single organization can solve every case alone,” read the website. “Progress happens when investigators, scientists, advocates, and communities come together with a shared purpose: identifying victims, uncovering truth, and holding perpetrators accountable.”
Forensic technology partners include:
- DNA Labs International
- RGEN Forensics
- BODE Technology
- Signature Science
- GEDmatch
- Othram (who initially worked on DNA recovered from the University of Idaho crime scene)
By advocating for the use of advanced forensic tools and helping move cases forward toward identification and accountability, Murder Has a Name also stands alongside victims’ families—a path the Goncalves family themselves have unfortunately had to navigate.
On the advocacy side, Rivers Dahlias and Turning Hearts are partners of the foundation.
“Murder Has a Name was created from a simple truth: every crime has an identity, and every victim deserves answers. An unsolved case is not an unsolvable one. It means we must work harder and smarter, using the newest science, technology, and investigative approaches available,” reads the foundation’s mission statement. “Our foundation exists to push progress forward, bringing modern forensic methods to cases once thought beyond reach and reminding families that hope does not expire.”
How it Works
Murder Has a Name’s funding comes from individual donors, private contributions and partnerships with those who believe in advancing justice through modern forensic technology. The funds are allocated wholly and directly to cases that can benefit from advanced DNA analysis. The foundation works alongside investigators and forensic professionals to ensure resources are applied where they can make the greatest impact.
Cases are independently reviewed and selected by the foundation’s forensic partners. The foundation’s role is strictly to fund cases that have already been selected based on their potential for advanced DNA analysis and meaningful investigative outcomes.
Every murder case is different, and every family’s situation is unique. The foundation’s goal is to develop a trusted network of resources that can help families explore potential support options based on their individual needs. Part of that includes a vetted network of resources designed to help families access support, guidance and information relevant to their individual circumstances.
Another part is education: helping families and communities better understand available forensic advancements while providing access to verified resources, trusted organizations, and guidance.
“Our daughter has a name. Every victim and perpetrator does. This foundation exists to make sure neither remain unknown,” said Kristi and Steve Goncalves.