Karen Read Case: Key Developments, Evidence, and What Comes Next

The Karen Read case continues to capture national attention as it moves through its second highly publicized trial. With heated debates over crucial evidence, intense courtroom testimony, and strong opinions from supporters on both sides, this case is far from ordinary. In this article, we break down the key developments, evidence disputes, and what might come next for Karen Read.

Who is Karen Read?

Karen Read, a former adjunct professor at Bentley University and finance professional, is at the center of a controversial legal battle. She is accused of killing her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O’Keefe, outside a condo in Canton, Massachusetts, in January 2022. Read, now 45, has denied all charges and unsuccessfully fought to get them dropped in court. As detailed in this overview article from USA Today, she was arrested just days after O’Keefe’s death, which followed an evening of social drinking.

Timeline and Key Events

The night of January 29, 2022, is central to the Karen Read trial. According to prosecutors, after a night out, Read struck O’Keefe with her SUV, causing fatal injuries, and drove away. Her defense claims instead that O’Keefe was beaten inside the home, attacked by a dog, and left outside to die in freezing conditions—a position that has divided public opinion and generated significant media attention.

Read’s first trial ended in a hung jury, with deliberations stretching out before finally leading to a mistrial. Jury selection for the retrial began in April 2025 and the case has featured dramatic testimony since then. For an in-depth look at courtroom developments, see live trial updates on WCVB.

Disputed Evidence & Key Testimony

Several pieces of evidence are heavily disputed:

• Broken Taillight: Investigators found pieces of Read's taillight at the scene. The prosecution claims these broke when Read backed her SUV into O’Keefe. The defense suggests the taillight evidence was planted.
• Google Search Timeline: Jennifer McCabe, a key witness, searched "how long to die in cold" early the morning O’Keefe was found dead. The defense argues McCabe searched this before O'Keefe was discovered, while McCabe testifies she did it at Read's request after the body was found.
• Read’s Alleged Confession: Multiple witnesses have said Karen Read repeated the phrase “I hit him, I hit him, I hit him.” However, Read claims she asked, “Could I have hit him?” instead. This crucial distinction is debated in court.

For more on witness debates and courtroom testimony, view the latest coverage from WCVB.

Trials, Investigations, and What’s Next

The Karen Read case has spotlighted law enforcement practices after the lead investigator, State Trooper Michael Proctor, was fired over case misconduct. A federal probe into the investigation found no grounds for further charges, but the controversy lingers.

Read’s second trial has featured appearances from friends, police, paramedics, and O'Keefe’s family. The judge has advised that the proceedings could last up to eight weeks, and major media outlets continue to provide daily updates and analysis. The legal battle has also attracted documentaries and national coverage, making it one of the most closely watched murder trials in recent Massachusetts history.

Conclusion

The Karen Read trial is a gripping and complex case that continues to unfold in court and in public opinion. As the courtroom drama and battle over evidence continue, both the prosecution and Read’s defense remain firmly opposed, with no easy resolution in sight. For further reading and frequent updates, check ongoing coverage on reputable sites like USA Today and WCVB Boston.

Stay tuned as the Karen Read case progresses and the search for the truth continues.