Mistrial Declared in Edward Holley Murder Case for Megan McDonald

A mistrial was declared in the murder trial of Edward Holley, who was accused of killing his former girlfriend Megan McDonald 22 years ago in Wallkill, New York, after the jury could not reach a unanimous verdict following nearly a week of deliberations. Holley, who pleaded not guilty, was charged in 2023 after new DNA evidence linked him to the case, though his defense argued the DNA was minimal and explained by their prior relationship. The prosecution presented dozens of witnesses and evidence over several weeks, including testimony from investigators and individuals who claimed Holley made incriminating statements, while the defense did not call any witnesses and asserted the prosecution failed to prove its case. Despite the mistrial, the judge denied Holley bail, so he remains in jail as the prosecution indicated plans to retry the case. A status conference is scheduled for early May to determine next steps. The case remains significant for the victim's family, who have waited over two decades for resolution.