Tears, Texts & Test Results: The Karen Read Retrial Unfolds

The retrial of Karen Read, accused in the death of Boston police officer John O’Keefe, has resumed with witnesses returning to the stand amid tears, disputed text messages, and crucial blood test evidence. The prosecution alleges that Read intentionally reversed her SUV over O’Keefe after a house party, while the defense argues procedural mishandling and potential bias by investigators. Throughout the first week, a diverse set of witnesses—including friends of the victim, accident reconstruction experts, and toxicologists—have provided emotional testimony, digital records, and blood-alcohol results that exceeded legal limits. The trial is expected to continue with further expert analysis and contentious debates over phone records, evidence handling, and alleged investigative errors.

Case Background
Charges and Timeline

Karen Read faces second-degree murder charges for allegedly fatally striking her boyfriend, Officer John O’Keefe, on January 29, 2022, and failing to render aid or remain at the scene.

An initial 2024 trial ended in a hung jury, prompting the current retrial after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to bar the second prosecution under double-jeopardy grounds.

Key Legal Arguments

Prosecution: Claims Read acted with disregard for human life by reversing over O’Keefe while intoxicated and then attempting to conceal the crime scene.

Defense: Asserts that police investigators mishandled evidence, exhibited personal bias, and overlooked alternative explanations that might exonerate Read.

Important Testimonies
Emotional Eyewitness Accounts
Several of O’Keefe’s friends testified with great emotion, recalling their last conversations and moments with him before the incident. Many witnesses broke down as they described waving goodbye to Read and the victim at the party just hours before the crash.

Contested Text Messages
Text exchanges between Read and O’Keefe, as well as comments made by lead investigator Michael Proctor, were introduced to challenge the objectivity of the investigation. Defense attorneys highlighted disparaging remarks and alleged that Proctor’s personal views colored the initial inquiry.

Blood Test Results
Toxicology reports showed Read’s blood-alcohol concentration exceeded the legal driving limit at the time samples were taken. The handling and chain of custody for these samples—presented in clear plastic cups and paper bags—became a focal point for defense challenges regarding evidentiary reliability.

Upcoming Proceedings
Accident Reconstruction: Automotive experts will reconstruct the crash scene, analyze skid marks, and assess vehicle damage to determine the precise mechanics of the impact.

Digital Evidence Debates: Lawyers will dispute the accuracy and timeline of Google searches and phone metadata, including queries about survival in cold conditions.

Investigation Scrutiny: The defense is set to question the removal of key investigators in March 2025 and to present theories of law-enforcement misconduct or cover-up.

How to Watch
The Karen Read retrial is being broadcast live from the Norfolk County Courthouse, Massachusetts. Viewers can follow proceedings via major cable news networks and official court livestream portals.