The retrial for Edward Holley, the man accused in the 2003 murder of 20-year-old Megan McDonald, has been delayed. Jury selection was expected to begin today in Orange County Court, but instead, a conference is being held to determine how long the proceedings will be postponed.

Holley’s attorneys say the prosecution turned over a substantial amount of new DNA evidence on Friday, prompting them to request more time to have the material reviewed by a defense expert. They say none of the evidence directly implicates Holley but believe some of it could be favorable to their case.

Megan McDonald case: Murder trial begins in Orange County 22 years after brutal killing

Prosecutors have not detailed what the new DNA evidence includes but confirm that a new trial date has not yet been set.

Holley is accused of bludgeoning McDonald, a SUNY Orange student and daughter of a retired NYPD detective, and dumping her body on a remote road in the Town of Wallkill in March 2003. Prosecutors allege Holley—who was romantically involved with McDonald and allegedly upset over their breakup—killed her in a jealous rage.

The case went unsolved for 20 years until Holley was arrested in 2023. Investigators say they uncovered new information during a renewed cold case probe, including inconsistencies in Holley’s past statements, DNA material found on evidence from the crime scene, and testimony from a jail inmate who claimed Holley confessed behind bars.

Holley’s defense team has challenged the credibility of the inmate and the strength of the forensic evidence. His first trial earlier this year ended in a mistrial when jurors failed to reach a unanimous verdict after several days of deliberations.

Holley remains held in jail as both sides prepare for what is expected to be another emotional and closely watched trial.