PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Expert testimony in the murder trial of a South Carolina man accused of killing a college student from New Jersey suggested the victim’s DNA was likely found under the suspect’s fingernails.
Forensic scientist Ryan Dewane said there was "very strong support" that DNA found under the fingernails of Nathaniel Rowland belonged to Samantha Josephson, a Robbinsville, New Jersey native who was attending the University of South Carolina.
Josephson got into the wrong car searching for her Uber ride after a night out. Her body was found in a wooded area 65 miles away with more than 100 stab wounds. Prosecutors said Rowland used child locks to trap Josephson in the back seat before killing her.
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The scientist said her phone was found in the car along with her blood, which was found on a bandana and a sock belonging to Rowland.
Investigators said Rowland used a blade on a multi-tool to kill her. That weapon was recovered and also had her blood on it. So did gloves found in the trash at Rowland's girlfriends house.
Josephson's killing in 2019 put the national spotlight on ride-share safety and prompted changes, including more prominent displays of license plates to ensure people get into the right vehicle.