Retired Officer Continues Testimony in Karen Read Murder Retrial

The retrial of Karen Read, accused of killing her boyfriend Boston police officer John O’Keefe by allegedly striking him with her SUV after a night of drinking, continued this week with key testimony from law enforcement and forensic experts. Retired Canton police Lt. Paul Gallagher described using a leaf blower to collect evidence from the snowy scene, including blood and a broken cocktail glass, while defending unconventional evidence-gathering methods due to a severe snowstorm. Massachusetts State Police forensic scientist Hannah Knowles testified that Read’s blood alcohol level at the time of the incident was estimated to be at least twice the legal limit. The prosecution maintains that Read hit O’Keefe while intoxicated, while the defense argues she is being framed, suggesting a cover-up involving law enforcement and that O’Keefe was beaten inside the house before being left outside. Key witness Jennifer McCabe, who was present when O’Keefe’s body was found, claimed Read incriminated herself at the scene, but the defense challenged her credibility and motives. The first trial ended in a mistrial, and this retrial continues to draw attention as both sides present their cases.