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In Kingston, the murder trial of former New York State Trooper Christopher Baldner continues today (October 30) with more testimony being heard. Baldner is accused of causing the death of 11-year-old Monica Goods during a high-speed chase on the New York State Thruway on December 22, 2020. If convicted, he faces 25 years to life in prison.
Yesterday, the courtroom heard from Monica's stepmother, April Goods, who described the tragic events that unfolded. According to Daily Freeman, April Goods recounted how Baldner, during a traffic stop for speeding, became enraged and rammed their vehicle, causing it to overturn. She tearfully testified about the chaos and fear inside the car as Baldner approached, shouting and threatening them.
The prosecution played a recording capturing the moments before and after the crash, where Baldner can be heard using profanities and threatening the family. The defense argues that Baldner was attempting to stop a dangerous driver, as the family vehicle was allegedly traveling at high speeds. The defense also questioned April Goods' credibility by highlighting inconsistencies in her statements.
The trial continues as the court hears more testimonies and evidence related to the incident. The outcome of the trial will determine Baldner's fate and could bring closure to the Goods family, who lost their daughter in the tragic event.