Pennsylvania, USA — September 4, 2026: A homicide investigation in southwestern Pennsylvania has taken a new turn after authorities released additional evidence and police body-camera footage connected to the death of college student Karoline Heintz.

Police say 18-year-old Royce Moser is accused of fatally stabbing Heintz, who was also 18, at his home in North Strabane Township on August 19. Her body was subsequently discovered inside the rear section of her Jeep in California Borough, near PennWest California University.

According to investigators, Heintz had failed to return to campus, prompting her family to contact police. An AirTag associated with her vehicle helped authorities identify its location. Officers later found her body inside the vehicle.

Court documents allege that Moser became angry during a conversation with Heintz before retrieving a knife from his home. Investigators say he later admitted to police that he stabbed her and moved her body into the vehicle’s rear hatch.

Authorities also accuse Moser’s mother, Rachel Moser, 56, of helping her son after the alleged killing. Investigators say she assisted with cleaning activities, handled clothing and attempted to help dispose of the knife. Police later recovered the weapon during their investigation.

Newly released evidence includes surveillance images, photographs of the vehicle and other items investigators say are connected to the case. Police body-camera footage released this week also shows officers discovering Heintz inside the Jeep during the early hours of August 20.

Investigators have additionally described several internet searches allegedly made by Royce Moser after the killing. The searches reportedly included questions about fingerprints, murder and possible criminal penalties.

Royce Moser is facing a criminal homicide charge along with other allegations. Rachel Moser faces charges including hindering apprehension, tampering with evidence, abuse of a corpse and obstruction of justice.

Both defendants remain in custody without bail, according to authorities. Their formal arraignment is scheduled for October 13.

The case remains pending in court, and the allegations against both defendants have not been established as facts by a final judicial verdict.

Heintz’s family has asked for privacy while mourning her death and has expressed a desire for justice.