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Teen Charged in Killing of PennWest Student; Mother Accused of Helping Hide Body

Police say a timeline tying an alleged Aug. 19 stabbing to a post‑crime cleanup led to homicide and obstruction charges that will shape the case.

Overview

  • Officials say Karoline Heintz was fatally stabbed after a meeting with her boyfriend on Aug. 19, and investigators allege the attack occurred after the conversation turned hostile.
  • Pennsylvania authorities charged 18‑year‑old Royce Moser with criminal homicide plus counts for tampering with evidence, abuse of a corpse and obstruction.
  • Moser’s mother, Rachel Moser, was arrested on charges including hindering apprehension, tampering with evidence, abuse of a corpse and obstruction after police say she helped clean the car and remove items tied to the killing.
  • Heintz’s family tracked her Jeep, called 911 for a welfare check late Wednesday night, and officers found her body in the vehicle’s rear hatch near the California Public Library early Thursday.
  • Both suspects are in custody, investigators have recorded a reported statement that a “demon” told the defendant to stab Heintz which has not been validated, and prosecutors expect forthcoming arraignment and forensic work to determine next steps.