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In Kingston, the murder trial of former State Trooper Christopher Baldner is nearing its conclusion as testimony is expected to wrap up today (November 17). Baldner faces charges of second-degree murder, second-degree manslaughter, and reckless endangerment following a 2020 high-speed chase that resulted in the death of 11-year-old Monica Goods.
Prosecutors allege that Baldner, during the pursuit on the New York State Thruway, intentionally rammed the SUV driven by Monica's father, Tristin Goods, causing it to flip and kill the young girl. The prosecution's expert witness claimed Baldner's actions showed "depraved indifference to human life" as he allegedly hit the family's vehicle twice at speeds approaching 130 miles per hour. Assistant Attorney General Jennifer Gashi described Baldner's actions as a "fatal abuse of power" according to reports.
In contrast, the defense argues that Tristin Goods lost control of the vehicle, leading to the crash. Defense expert Jay Przybyla testified that Baldner took emergency evasive actions to avoid the collision. Przybyla contended that Tristin Goods made a sudden 36-degree turn just before the second impact, which destabilized the SUV as reported by the Daily Freeman.
Baldner, who retired in 2022, could face decades in prison if convicted on all charges. The trial has also revisited a 2019 incident where Baldner allegedly rammed another vehicle during a chase. As the trial concludes, it remains uncertain if Baldner will testify in his defense according to iHeart Radio.