New court documents reveal that Xana Kernodle was awake and fought back during the Idaho student tragedy, leaving behind critical evidence.

An unsealed court filing has revealed new details about how 20-year-old University of Idaho student Xana Kernodle tried to defend herself during the deadly attack carried out by Bryan Kohberger in November 2022, according to People Magazine.

Kohberger took the lives of four students after entering their off-campus home in Moscow, Idaho, in the early hours of November 13. Three victims — Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen and Ethan Chapin — were found in their beds and passed away before they could stand up, according to autopsy findings.

Kernodle, however, was awake at the time of the incident.

Court documents obtained by People Magazine indicate that Kernodle had received a food delivery shortly before Kohberger entered the house. Investigators believe she was eating in the kitchen when she heard noises upstairs and went to check.

By that point, Mogen and Goncalves had already lost their lives. Evidence suggests Kernodle then ran back toward her bedroom, with Kohberger following her. Forensic traces found along the stairway and near her room support this sequence of events.

Despite being unarmed and smaller in stature, Kernodle attempted to resist. Her autopsy report shows she suffered numerous sharp-force injuries, including wounds to her face, chest, arms and hands — signs consistent with defensive injuries. Evidence at the scene further indicates there was a prolonged struggle.

Kernodle was found on her bedroom floor near her boyfriend, Ethan Chapin, who also lost his life during the incident. Forensic evidence shows both were in close contact during their final moments.

Investigators believe the struggle explains why Kohberger left behind a knife sheath that later linked him to the scene. Reports also noted he was seen with visible injuries after the incident.

Kohberger later agreed to plead guilty to four counts of first-degree murder, avoiding a possible capital sentence. He is expected to spend the rest of his life in prison.