ATHENS, Ga.—The trial of Jose Ibarra, accused of murdering 22-year-old nursing student Laken Riley, began on Friday with opening statements and the presentation of key evidence. Riley, a student at Augusta University, was found dead on February 22 near Lake Herrick on the University of Georgia campus.
Prosecutors allege that Ibarra, 26, attacked Riley during her morning jog, leading to a fatal struggle. They presented data from Riley’s GPS running watch, indicating an 18-minute altercation, and highlighted forensic evidence, including Ibarra’s DNA under Riley’s fingernails. Additionally, a 911 call made by Riley during the attack was played in court, capturing muffled male voices before abruptly ending.
Ibarra, a Venezuelan national who entered the country illegally in 2022, is accused of a number of crimes, including aggravated assault and intentional murder. His defense contends that the evidence is circumstantial and questions the validity of the forensic findings.
The case has garnered national attention, intersecting with broader debates on immigration and border security. The trial is expected to continue with further witness testimonies and evidence presentations in the coming days.
