KINGSTON – A large crowd of community activists and concerned citizens took to the streets of Kingston Monday night for a candlelight vigil to remember an 11-year-old girl on the 5th anniversary of her untimely death.
Five years ago, Monica Goods was killed in a high-speed chase near exit 19 on The New York State Thruway.
State Trooper Christopher Baldner stopped her family’s SUV for speeding. An argument led to a hot pursuit, that ended with his ramming their vehicle and the girl’s death.
Baldner was charged with murder, reckless endangerment and manslaughter in 2021.
Last year, a jury acquitted him on the first two charges, but couldn’t reach a verdict on manslaughter, leading to a mistrial.
Community organizer and co-founder of Rise Up Kingston Callie Mackenzie says a petition has been created to push for legislation that would end dangerous, high-speed police pursuits.
“This legislation is for common sense,” said Mackenzie. “There should not be high speed chases. That’s not public safety when there is a child in the car. Stopping somebody, chasing somebody for allegedly speeding. That is not public safety. It’s a big issue and something that really needs to change.”
The African Roots Community Center organized the vigil and distributed free food, clothing and toys in Goods’ memory.
Community worker Anne Ames says she wants to make sure that people don’t forget what happened to Goods.
“We have been out here for five years, and we were all devastated with the trial decision, so tonight is a comfort and gives us strength because we have more to do,” said Ames. “We’re just catching our breath and honoring Monica Goods and her family.”
“This is not about an issue. This is about a little girl, and everyone who has children should think, ‘This could be their little girl,” said Mackenzie.
Baldner’s new trial for manslaughter is scheduled to begin in February.
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