Mom Facing Trial in Death of Own Daughter, Prosecutor Blames Bad “Choices”

Testimony continues today in the trial of an Eaton County woman suspected in the death of her own daughter.

The Lansing State Journal reports prosecutors believe the actions of 28-year-old Starr Kiogima-McGill led to the death of her 4-year-old daughter when she allegedly consumed not only alcohol but painkillers and anti-anxiety medication then rolled her SUV on I-96 in 2013.

"This is a case about Natalie McGill, a 4-year-old girl who lost her life," said Eaton Couinty Assistant Prosecutor Chris Anderson in his opening statement this week.  Anderson added it was the defendant"s "choice" of inappropriate behavior that led to the girl's death.

The article indicates witness testimony found Kiogima-McGill's blood-alcohol content was three times the legal limit.  Oxycontin and Lorazepam were also found in her system.

The accident happened in the afternoon hours in September of last year, according to police reports, while the woman was speeding.  They claim her vehicle left the roadway on the ramp from Saginaw Highway to the interstate.

Natalie was thrown from the vehicle and died at the scene.  Officials said in an opening statement that the child wasn't properly secured in a car-seat if she was even in one at all.

Kiogima-McGill's attorney didn't make an opening statement.  He commented earlier, though, that the woman lost control after reaching into the backseat to give her daughter some candy.  He claims the loss of Natalie was simply the result of a tragic accident and that his client should not be facing charges.

If convicted of her daughter's death, Kiogima-McGill could face life in prison.  She also faces up to a 15-year sentence if found guilty of impaired driving.

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