In a closely-watched murder trial, jurors are set to visit the site in Canton where the body of Boston police officer John O’Keefe was found in a snowbank back in 2022. The trial of Karen Read, who is accused of killing O’Keefe, resumed on Friday morning before the jury headed to Fairview Avenue for their visit.
Before the visit, jurors were scheduled to hear additional testimony from Canton Paramedic and Firefighter Katie McLaughlin. McLaughlin took the stand on Thursday afternoon and is expected to provide crucial insights into the case. The trial has garnered significant attention, as Read, 44, pleaded not guilty to charges including second-degree murder. Prosecutors claim that she killed O’Keefe, her then-boyfriend, by hitting him with her car during an argument and leaving him to die in the snowbank.
However, Read’s attorneys have presented a different narrative. They argue that O’Keefe was beaten inside the home where his body was found and that their client is being framed. The defense has gone further to allege a cover-up involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
McLaughlin was the fourth witness to testify on Thursday, following three other first responders who described their actions and observations after O’Keefe’s body was discovered. The court proceedings have been attended by Read, her three lawyers, as well as her parents and other family members. O’Keefe’s parents and family members have also been present throughout the trial.
While the trial continues, a 200-foot buffer zone has been established around the courthouse to keep demonstrators away. This decision was made by Judge Beverly Cannone and was subsequently upheld by a single Supreme Judicial Court judge. Protesters appealed the ruling, but in a recent decision, the full court confirmed that the trial judge struck a fair balance between the right to protest and the defendant’s right to a fair trial.
As the trial unfolds, it is crucial to stay updated on the latest developments. This is a developing story, and 7NEWS will provide on-air and online updates.
