Christopher Baldner manslaughter trial underway in Kingston

Live updates from the case against the former state trooper accused of killing 11-year-old Monica Goods in 2020

Mar. 10, 2026 at 2:18pm

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The manslaughter trial of former New York State Trooper Christopher Baldner is underway in Ulster County Court in Kingston. Baldner is accused of killing 11-year-old Monica Goods during a high-speed chase on the Thruway in December 2020, when he rammed the vehicle driven by Monica's father, Tristin Goods.

Why it matters

This case has drawn significant attention and scrutiny over the use of force by police, particularly against people of color, and the accountability of law enforcement officers for their actions. The outcome of the trial could have broader implications for police policies and public trust in the criminal justice system.

The details

Prosecutors allege that on December 22, 2020, Baldner, a 19-year veteran of the state police, initiated a high-speed chase with the Goods family vehicle on the Thruway near the Kingston exit. During the chase, Baldner allegedly rammed the Goods' vehicle, causing it to spin out of control and overturn, killing 11-year-old Monica Goods.

  • The incident occurred on December 22, 2020.
  • The manslaughter trial of Christopher Baldner began on March 10, 2025.

The players

Christopher Baldner

A former 19-year veteran of the New York State Police, accused of killing 11-year-old Monica Goods during a high-speed chase in 2020.

Monica Goods

An 11-year-old girl who was killed when the vehicle she was riding in was rammed by Trooper Baldner during a high-speed chase in 2020.

Tristin Goods

The father of Monica Goods, who was driving the vehicle that was rammed by Trooper Baldner during the high-speed chase in 2020.

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What they’re saying

“This case is about accountability and justice for the senseless loss of a young life.”

— Prosecutor

“Trooper Baldner was simply doing his job to protect public safety, and any loss of life was a tragic accident.”

— Defense Attorney

What’s next

The trial is expected to last several weeks, and the judge will ultimately decide whether Trooper Baldner is guilty of manslaughter.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate over the use of force by police and the need for greater accountability and transparency in law enforcement. The outcome could have significant implications for police policies and public trust in the criminal justice system.