NORWICH – The Coates murder trial continued Friday as forensic scientists explained ways the defendant's DNA may have been removed from the crime scene.

Jeremy Coates, 47, of Greene, has been accused of killing 58-year-old veteran, David Green, and is charged with first-degree murder, assault, and robbery. According to District Attorney Joseph McBride, Coates killed Green by striking him with multiple objects, including a 75-pound piece of slate, and then removed his own DNA from the scene by washing and burning it away.

Two forensic scientists testified on Friday for the prosecution, and New York State Forensic Scientist Kristine Robinson said there is no DNA evidence linking Coates to the murder.

New York State Forensic Scientist Leah Egnor said she examined objects found on the crime scene and found blood coating several weapons including a shattered battle-ax, an ashtray, a 75-pound piece of slate, and a hammer. Egnor added any objects she examined that may have contained DNA evidence were analyzed by other scientists, including Robinson.

Robinson tested the blood found on crime scene objects and the firearms found in Coates' attic. According to Robinson, the blood found on both the objects and the firearms belonged to the victim.