Karen Read Retrial Begins: Key Facts in Officer O'Keefe's Death

The retrial of Karen Read in the death of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe, is scheduled to begin this week after the initial trial resulted in a hung jury. Read is accused of running over O'Keefe with her car in January 2022. The defense argues that O'Keefe was beaten to death at a party and left outside.

The first trial presented conflicting evidence and witness testimonies, leading to the jury's inability to reach a unanimous verdict. Key points of contention included the condition of Read's vehicle, the presence of O'Keefe's DNA on the car, and witness accounts of the events leading up to his death. The prosecution maintains that Read intentionally struck O'Keefe with her SUV after an argument, while the defense suggests a cover-up involving other individuals present at the party.

Jury selection for the retrial will focus on finding impartial jurors who have not been unduly influenced by media coverage of the case. The retrial is expected to revisit much of the same evidence presented in the first trial, but with potentially different interpretations and outcomes. The case has drawn national attention due to its complex circumstances and the involvement of law enforcement officials. The outcome of this retrial will be closely watched by legal experts and the public alike.