DEDHAM, Mass. – Testimony in the murder trial of Karen Read, a Massachusetts woman accused of fatally striking her boyfriend, John O’Keefe, with an SUV during a snowstorm, resumed Monday. Read, 44, from Mansfield, pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder and other charges. The prosecution alleges that she hit O’Keefe with her black SUV outside a home in Canton on Jan. 29, 2022, after a night of drinking, leaving him to die. The defense plans to argue that someone else is responsible for O’Keefe’s death.
Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor, a lead investigator in the case, testified about his interviews at the Alberts’ home, where O’Keefe was found, and his observations at Good Samaritan Hospital. He noted abrasions on O’Keefe’s arm, swollen eyes, and blood on the back of his head. Proctor also described seeing Read’s vehicle at her parents’ home in Dighton, where a broken taillight was observed. The trial began with a prosecution request to exclude a defense witness discussing wounds on O’Keefe’s arm.
Sergeant Yuri Bukhenick, also from the State Police, was questioned about a “mirrored” video showing Read’s SUV inside the Canton Police Department. The defense highlighted discrepancies in the video, pointing to inconsistencies in the visual evidence presented. Nicholas Barros, a sergeant with Dighton Police Department, testified about the damage to Read’s SUV, specifically noting the broken taillight and dent near the taillight.
The defense raised concerns about the video evidence, claiming it was mirrored and potentially manipulated. Witnesses testified about the injuries sustained by O’Keefe, shedding light on the circumstances leading to his death. The trial detailed the efforts of first responders, O’Keefe’s relationship with Read, and the events of the fateful night.
Experts provided insights into Read’s blood alcohol content and the injuries sustained by O’Keefe. The trial aims to determine the events surrounding O’Keefe’s death, with the defense presenting third-party culprit evidence to challenge the prosecution’s narrative. The proceedings continue with a focus on unraveling the truth behind this tragic incident.