Karen Read Trial Live: Closing Arguments Begin in High-Stakes Retrial Today

Massachusetts, June 13, 2025 — The high-profile Karen Read trial has reached a critical moment today as prosecutors and defense attorneys deliver their closing arguments in front of an 18-person jury. This closely-watched case has captured national attention and drawn massive interest across true-crime communities.

Karen Read listens in court as closing arguments begin during her high-profile murder retrial in Massachusetts on June 13, 2025.

Jury Deliberations Set to Begin

Judge Beverly Cannone announced that the jury will likely receive the case by the end of today. “I don’t want to end the charge and send them home for the weekend,” she emphasized, highlighting the urgency of the moment. After closing arguments, jury instructions will be read, and deliberations will begin — potentially lasting several days.

The Case Against Karen Read

Karen Read, 45, stands accused of second-degree murder, vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and leaving the scene of a collision resulting in death. Prosecutors allege that Read fatally struck her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe, with her SUV after a night of heavy drinking and a heated argument on January 29, 2022. They argue that she then left him to die in the snow outside the home of fellow officer Brian Albert.

The Defense’s Argument

Read’s defense maintains her innocence, claiming that she dropped O’Keefe off at Albert’s home and left without incident. They argue that the investigation was tainted by bias from the start, overlooking evidence that could implicate other suspects. Read’s legal team has consistently argued that crucial evidence pointing elsewhere was ignored by law enforcement.

A Mistrial, and Now a Retrial

This is Read’s second trial after her first ended in a mistrial when the jury failed to reach a verdict. Since then, the case has only grown in public interest, with many supporters staging rallies declaring her innocence and criticizing the investigation.

Prosecutor presents closing arguments while Karen Read and her defense attorney listen closely during the high-stakes retrial in Massachusetts on June 13, 2025.

How to Watch the Karen Read Trial Live

CourtTV continues to provide comprehensive live coverage of the trial, including today’s pivotal closing arguments and ongoing jury deliberations. You can also follow live updates on major news outlets like USA Today and CBS News Boston.

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