University of Miami murder case takes twist as witness once thought dead is found alive

Rashaun Jones will go on trial on October 6, 2025. He is accused of killing his teammate Bryan Pata in 2006. The case changed suddenly when Paul Conner, the only eyewitness, was found alive.

Prosecutors had earlier told the court that Conner was dead. He is 81 years old and lives in Louisville, Kentucky. ESPN reporters found him alive in late August 2025.

Paul Conner found alive after being declared dead in Bryan Pata murder case

Bryan Pata, aged 22, was shot in the head on November 7, 2006. He was killed in the parking lot of his Miami apartment complex. Paul Conner lived in the same complex at the time. He told police he heard a loud noise. He also said he saw someone jogging away. Later, he picked Rashaun Jones from a photo lineup.

In July 2025, prosecutors said Conner was dead. They relied on data from a third-party database. The court agreed to use his old statements instead of live testimony. But in late August 2025, ESPN reporters knocked on his door in Louisville. TProsecutors had planned to use Conner’s past testimony from a 2022 bond hearing. Now it is unclear if he will testify in person. Defence attorney Sara Alvarez told ESPN: “This is a bigger issue. This is just blatant lies.”On September 19, 2025, a Florida judge confirmed the trial will begin on October 6, 2025. No further delays were given. Prosecutors said they will review Conner’s health and memory before deciding if he can appear in court.