Laura Moore
Jun 06, 2024 - 04:15

State police investigator testifies in Karen Read murder trial

Karen Read trial continues with emotional testimony from detective, evidence presented, and conflicting accounts of events leading to murder charges.

State police Detective Sergeant Yuriy Bukhenik took the stand once again in the Karen Read murder trial, following a dramatic day of testimony the day before. Bukhenik, a key investigator in the case, recounted his interview with Read at her father's house shortly after the discovery of John O'Keefe's body on the morning of January 29, 2022.

During his testimony, Bukhenik presented the clothing worn by O'Keefe at the time of his death, evoking emotional reactions from those in the courtroom. O'Keefe's mother had to leave, while his sister-in-law was visibly upset.

Karen Read, 44, from Mansfield, is facing second-degree murder charges for allegedly hitting O'Keefe with her SUV and abandoning him outside the home of Brian and Nicole Albert in Canton. O'Keefe, who was in a relationship with Read, ultimately died.

The defense claims that Read is being framed and that O'Keefe was actually killed at a party inside the Alberts' home. Bukhenik testified that Read told him about an argument they had the morning before O'Keefe's death over breakfast for his niece and nephew.

According to Bukhenik, video footage showed that Read and O'Keefe were getting along well at a local bar before the incident. Read reportedly consumed nine drinks that night before they went to the Alberts' house.

Read claimed she dropped O'Keefe off at the party but did not see him enter the house. Prosecutors presented video evidence of Read's car with visible damage to the right rear tail light, which they allege occurred after O'Keefe's death.

The defense argues that the damage was caused when Read hit O'Keefe's vehicle earlier that morning. However, Bukhenik testified that he found no damage to O'Keefe's car and no evidence of broken plastic in the garage.

As the trial continues, stay tuned to 7NEWS for the latest updates on this developing story.