A man accused of killing his girlfriend nearly a decade ago is set to be put on trial Wednesday.
Investigators say in August of 2016, Kaylene Roedel’s body was found decomposed along Honan Avenue Hiking and Biking Trail in Johnstown.
It was not until July 2020 that Christopher Rowe was charged with homicide for the death of his former girlfriend.
The state of Roedel’s remains originally made it difficult for investigators to tell a cause of death, but they later said evidence strongly suggests it is strangulation. Prosecutors said a new report from just last Friday said statements made by Rowe significantly increases the confidence in that cause of death.
Prosecutors with the attorney general’s office said reports show that Rowe’s blood was found on a piece of Roedel’s clothing when she was found, but the defense said their own DNA expert suggests it is not Rowe’s blood, but likely Roedel’s own blood.
Officials on both sides say that evidence will not be used during the trial because of errors in making one of the reports, though judge Norman Krumenacker said the DNA evidence does not favor either side.
We spoke with family of Roedel that said they are looking for justice, especially for Roedel’s daughter, who grew up without a mom.
A plea deal was offered to Rowe but the trial is still set to begin Wednesday morning.