Video released in Springfield accident

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (WDTN) - The man police say is responsible for hitting and killing a Springfield girl should not have been behind the wheel in the first place.

Joseph Lewis Thomson Sr., was in court on Monday, answering to charges of aggravated vehicular homicide and driving under suspension.

Prosecutors said Thomson struck 12-year-old Kayla Mongold on Sunday at North Murray Street and Chestnut Avenue, while fleeing from officers.

"He's a terrible person and I hope he gets what he deserves," said Brenda Arenas a Mongold family friend.

The accident is still under investigation, but late Monday afternoon, Springfield Police Chief Stephen Moody released cruiser cam video that captured the seconds leading up to the crash.

Chief Moody said one of his officers was working overtime, looking for speeders when he spotted Thomson driving 62 in a 35 MPH zone and attempted to make a traffic stop.

The video showed Thomson, who was driving a green SUV, move from the center lane to the curb lane and then take off.

"As soon as he makes that turn you can hear the engine accelerate," said Chief Moody. "He has no intention of stopping. He has set the tone for this homicide right on North Street when he makes that move to the curb lane".

After Thomson nearly lost control on a curve, the officer turned off his lights and backed off, but continued to follow. Thirty seconds later, the cruiser pulled up on to the wreckage.

Chief Moody said officers and medics did everything they could, but Kayla could not be saved.

It is a tragedy that has touched Moody's department and the Springfield community.

"It's just heartbreaking for something so simple," said Springfield resident John Wheeler. "He could have just slowed down".