Dedham, Massachusetts – Testimony in the Karen Read murder trial continued today, with Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agent Brian Higgins taking the stand. He read several “flirty” text messages exchanged with the defendant, Karen Read, accused of hitting and killing her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe, with her SUV in 2022, leaving him to die in the snow outside a Canton home. The defense alleges a cover-up involving law enforcement.

Higgins, one of three men suggested as an alternate suspect in O’Keefe’s death by the defense, testified that he knew O’Keefe for about a year and considered him and Read as friends. The defense presented surveillance video from the Waterfall Bar and Grille in Canton, showing Higgins and another man play-fighting before the after-party.

The prosecution provided five pages of Higgins’s medical records to the defense, indicating a new development in the case. In anticipation of Higgins’ cross-examination, defense attorney Alan Jackson hinted at “fireworks” in the courtroom.

Higgins testified about his relationship with O’Keefe and Read, noting his interactions with them at social gatherings. He mentioned flirty text messages between himself and Read before O’Keefe’s death, indicating a romantic interest from Read.

During the trial, Higgins described an incident where Read made a romantic advance towards him after a gathering at O’Keefe’s house. The prosecution also presented text messages between Higgins and Read, shedding light on their relationship dynamics.

Cross-examination of Higgins by Read’s defense attorney began, focusing on his interactions and potential attraction to Read. The trial revealed more details about Read’s background and the charges she faces in relation to O’Keefe’s death.

Throughout the week, contentious testimonies and evidence were presented, including witness accounts of finding O’Keefe in the snow and internet search history related to hypothermia. The trial is scheduled to continue after the Memorial Day holiday, with experts speculating on the impact on the jury’s perception.

As the trial progresses, the prosecution and defense navigate through complex testimonies and evidence, aiming to present a clear narrative to the jury. The trial’s length and intricacies pose challenges for both sides in establishing a convincing case.