URGENT UPDATE: A jury has been officially seated in the trial of William Roy Carey Jr., a 47-year-old man from Perkiomen Township, accused of brutally murdering his girlfriend, Jessica Zipkin, with a hammer during a domestic dispute. The jury, consisting of 12 members and two alternates, was empaneled this afternoon in Montgomery County Court as the case gains immediate attention.
The trial is set to unfold over several days, with opening statements expected later today. Deputy District Attorney Kelly S. Lloyd and co-prosecutor Christian Garfield Taffe are pushing for a first-degree murder conviction, arguing that Carey had the intent to kill when he struck Zipkin, 34, in the head with a hammer on November 1, 2024. If convicted of first-degree murder, Carey could face a mandatory life sentence.
However, Carey’s defense team, led by attorneys Joseph Schultz and Scott Frank Frame, plans to argue a voluntary intoxication defense, suggesting that he was under the influence of controlled substances at the time of the incident. This defense could lower the charge to third-degree murder, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 to 40 years.
The tragic events unfolded early on November 2, when police responded to a 911 call about a possible deceased female at Carey’s apartment. Upon arrival, they discovered Zipkin lying face down on the bedroom floor, suffering from severe blunt force trauma to the back of her head. A bloodied hammer was found next to her body, according to the criminal complaint filed by state police.
An autopsy confirmed that Zipkin died from blunt force trauma, with multiple strikes to the head leading to her death. Investigators also recovered blood-stained clothing and shoes worn by Carey during the alleged crime. Surveillance video shows him entering nearby buildings where he is accused of disposing of evidence, including his cellphone.
Witnesses reported hearing a loud argument and a woman screaming around 2:30 p.m. on November 1, just hours before the fatal incident. The emotional toll of this case extends beyond the courtroom; it has drawn significant media attention given Carey’s brother, Kyle Carey, is also facing serious charges related to sexual assault of a minor.
As the trial progresses, the courtroom will be closely watched by those seeking justice for Jessica Zipkin. The outcome of this case may have lasting implications for all involved, making it a critical moment for the community. Stay tuned for updates as the trial unfolds in Montgomery County.