Public Defender Nathaniel Barone motions as he talks to his client Hadi Matar, right. Photo by Gregory Bacon

MAYVILLE – The suspect accused of stabbing a world-renown author at Chautauqua Institution two and a half years ago has decided not to testify in court.

On Thursday, both the prosecution and the defense rested in the trial of Hadi Matar, who has been charged with second-degree attempted murder and second-degree assault. He is accused of attempting to kill author Salman Rushdie and injuring Henry Reece during a presentation at Chautauqua Institution.

Before resting its case, the prosecution had Samantha Loucks, a forensic scientist with state police in Albany, testify.

Loucks noted how their office tested DNA recovered at the scene of when Salman Rushdie was stabbed Aug. 12, 2022. Among the items they tested included the handle and blade of the knife recovered from the scene, sweat pants and swabs taken from known individuals.

Between questioning from the prosecution and the defense, Loucks was on the witness stand for about an hour and a half.

Loucks said they were able to tell that there was DNA from three individuals. One of the individuals was Rushdie, however the DNA of the other two individuals was “insufficient” so a comparison was not made.

That point was emphasized by the defense.

“None of those identified were Mr. (Henry) Reece or Hadi Matar or anyone else for that matter,” Public Defender Nathaniel Barone said to Loucks, to which she agreed.

After the prosecution rested, the defense informed the court that it would not be having anyone testify.

Judge David Foley asked Matar directly if he understood it was his right to testify if he so chose, but that if he did testify, then he would be cross-examined by the prosecution.

Matar stated that he understood and said he decided he would not testify.

Closing arguments are expected Friday morning.