Shivangi Sinha
The death of John O’Keefe in January 2022 left a deep void in the lives of those who loved him. Though suspicion quickly fell on his then-girlfriend, Karen Read, no conviction has been made against her to date. Throughout the ongoing legal battle, John’s brother, Paul O’Keefe, has been a persistent voice seeking justice. He has actively engaged with the case over the years and has become the family’s primary spokesperson, openly sharing his thoughts with the public. Paul’s role in NBC’s ‘Dateline: Center of the Storm’ and ABC’s ’20/20′ episode titled ‘Karen Read: The Verdict,’ which features interviews with those close to the O’Keefe family. These accounts offer insight into Paul’s character and reveal how profoundly this ordeal has impacted him.
Paul O’Keefe Lost His Parents and Siblings in a Short Period of Time
Paul O’Keefe grew up in Braintree, Massachusetts, alongside his siblings Kristen and John O’Keefe. Their parents, John J. and Margaret O’Keefe fostered an environment that allowed each child to grow into their own person while still remaining closely connected. Even as the siblings moved into different phases of life, their bond never shook. But life brought painful tests. On October 11, 2005, Paul lost his father, and just a few years later, in April 2009, his mother passed away as well. Losing both parents within a span of a few years shook the very foundation of his world. Still, he found comfort in the presence of his brother and sister, leaning on them as they all navigated the grief together.
However, in November 2013, when Kristen died after battling a brain tumor, the blow was far more personal. Her loss left a profound mark on Paul, and it was one that altered him deeply and reminded him of the fragility of life and the importance of family. In January 2022, Paul faced another devastating loss when his brother, John O’Keefe, was found dead under suspicious circumstances. Since then, Paul has firmly maintained that he believes Karen Read, John’s girlfriend at the time, was responsible for his death. During Karen’s first trial, which began in April 2024, Paul took the stand and testified against her, alleging what he described as a deteriorating relationship between Karen and John.
During Karen Read’s first trial, Paul O’Keefe publicly expressed support for lead investigator Michael Proctor, who at the time was still overseeing the case. Proctor was later terminated for misconduct related to the investigation. There is no indication that Paul was aware of the misconduct when he voiced his support. After the trial ended in a mistrial, Paul publicly stated that he remained committed to seeking justice for his brother and alleged that Karen had killed John in a fit of rage following a night of drinking. He was unwavering in his belief and said there was no one else he would consider responsible. Paul testified once again during Karen’s second trial in March 2025, standing by his accusations. However, the jury ultimately found Karen not guilty of all the charges.
Paul O’Keefe Might be Pursuing a Civil Case Against His Brother’s Alleged Perpetrators Today
Paul O’Keefe is a graduate of Stonehill College and began his professional journey as a plumber. He initially worked independently before joining Sagamore Plumbing and Heating, Inc. as a Journeyman Plumber for about a year between 2010 and 2011. He later transitioned into sales, taking up a role as a Sales Representative at J&K Sales Associates. Since July 2012, he has been with Symmons Industries, where he started as a Business Development Manager. In August 2019, he was promoted to Regional Strategic Account Manager for the Northeast, a position he continues to hold.
Paul remains married to Erin O’Keefe and has taken on a parental role for his niece and nephew, Kayley and Patrick. The family seems to be settled in Boston, Massachusetts. On August 23, 2024, Paul filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Karen Read, as well as two Canton establishments, the Waterfall Bar & Grille and C.F. McCarthy’s, where John was last seen alive. Acting as the personal representative of John’s estate, Paul’s suit seeks at least $50,000 in damages, citing the loss of “society, companionship, comfort, guidance, counsel, net income, services, assistance, protection, care, and advice” for John’s next of kin. Initially, a judge ruled the civil case could not proceed until the criminal trial was concluded. Now that Karen Read has been acquitted, it remains to be seen how and when Paul will move forward with the lawsuit.
Read More: Where is Michael Proctor Now?
