Phil Vetrano Delivers Emotional Testimony in Daughter's Retrial

NEW YORK — “She was my light, my whole world, and he took her from us in the most brutal way imaginable.” These were the heart-wrenching words of Phil Vetrano on Tuesday, March 18, 2026, as he delivered emotional testimony in the retrial of Chanel Lewis, the East New York man accused of the 2016 murder of his daughter, Karina Vetrano, in Howard Beach.

The somber atmosphere in Queens Supreme Court, presided over by Justice Kenneth Holder, was palpable as Vetrano recounted the agonizing search for his daughter after she failed to return from a jog in Spring Creek Park. His testimony marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal proceedings, bringing the horrific details of the case back to the forefront for Queens residents.

The Lingering Trauma of a Community

Karina Vetrano, 30, was found brutally murdered in a marshy area of Spring Creek Park on August 2, 2016. Her death sent shockwaves through the close-knit Howard Beach community, sparking widespread fear and a tireless campaign for justice led by her family. The case remained unsolved for months until the arrest of Chanel Lewis in February 2017.

The first trial in 2018 ended in a hung jury, leading to this retrial, which has again drawn significant attention. Residents along Cross Bay Boulevard, many of whom remember the original tragedy and the intense community search, are closely following the proceedings. The somber mood in the courtroom extends even to the bustling streets of Kew Gardens, where news of the retrial weighs heavily.

"Every time this case comes up, it brings all the fear and pain back," said Dolores Marino, a Howard Beach resident of 40 years, interviewed outside the courthouse. "We all knew Karina, or knew of her, and her family's fight for justice is our fight too. We need closure." Her words reflect a sentiment widely shared in the neighborhood.

Key Moments in Testimony

Phil Vetrano detailed the evening Karina disappeared, describing his mounting concern when she didn't answer his calls or return home. He recounted joining police in the search through the dense parkland, ultimately discovering her body just off a path. His raw emotion brought several jurors to tears, underscoring the profound impact of the crime. Legal experts suggest the testimony could be crucial in swaying the jury, especially given the previous hung verdict. Details regarding [past Queens murder trials](https://www.crossbaycurrent.com/news/queens-cold-cases) often highlight the emotional toll on families.

Prosecutor Brad Leventhal presented forensic evidence, including DNA found under Karina Vetrano’s fingernails that allegedly linked Lewis to the scene. The defense, led by attorney Robert Moeller, continued to challenge the validity of the DNA evidence and the circumstances surrounding Lewis's confession, arguing for reasonable doubt. They maintain that the evidence against Lewis is circumstantial.

The Legal Battle Continues

Chanel Lewis, 25, has pleaded not guilty to the charges, which include murder and sexual abuse. The trial is expected to continue for several more weeks, with numerous witnesses slated to testify from both the prosecution and defense teams. The courtroom, located at 125-01 Queens Boulevard, has seen consistent attendance from both the Vetrano family's supporters and legal observers.

This retrial symbolizes the tenacious pursuit of justice by the Vetrano family and the enduring pain within the Howard Beach community. Regardless of the verdict, the case has left an indelible mark on Queens, particularly along Cross Bay Boulevard where Karina's memory is honored through various community initiatives. The family’s dedication to [victim advocacy in NYC](https://www.crossbaycurrent.com/community/victim-advocacy-nyc) continues to be a driving force.

Community Vigilance and Remembrance

Since Karina’s death, the community has taken steps to improve safety in Spring Creek Park, including advocating for better lighting and increased patrols. Her memory serves as a painful reminder of the vulnerability of residents, and a call to action for collective vigilance. The annual memorial run held in her honor draws thousands of participants from across the city, emphasizing the deep impact she had on her community.

As the retrial progresses, Howard Beach residents remain hopeful for a definitive resolution that will bring a measure of peace to the Vetrano family and the community at large. The outcome of this high-profile case will undoubtedly shape future discussions around justice and victim rights in Queens.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Karina Vetrano Retrial

What are the charges against Chanel Lewis in the retrial? Chanel Lewis is accused of the murder and sexual abuse of Karina Vetrano in August 2016. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

When did the murder of Karina Vetrano occur? Karina Vetrano was murdered on August 2, 2016, in Spring Creek Park in Howard Beach, Queens.

What was the impact of Phil Vetrano's testimony? Phil Vetrano's emotional testimony, recounting the search for his daughter and the discovery of her body, was a powerful moment in court, bringing several jurors to tears and highlighting the immense personal tragedy of the case.

Why is this a retrial? The first trial of Chanel Lewis in 2018 ended in a hung jury, meaning the jury could not reach a unanimous verdict. This necessitated a retrial to resolve the charges.