News: Flair Airlines CFO Indicted in Involuntary Manslaughter Case Linked to Fatal Crash Involving Underage Drinking

[News]

December 11, 2024 — Sumanth Rao, the Chief Financial Officer of Flair Airlines, is facing involuntary manslaughter charges stemming from a tragic car crash in Georgia that claimed the life of a teenage passenger. The incident occurred on February 24, 2024, when an underage driver, allegedly impaired after drinking at Rao’s Atlanta-area residence, lost control of her SUV, resulting in a fatal crash. In an official statement, Flair Airlines confirmed its awareness of the situation and assured stakeholders of “operational continuity” as the legal proceedings unfold. Rao joined the airline in August and has held his CFO position for less than six months. Details of the Incident
According to DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston, a grand jury has indicted Rao, his wife, and 18-year-old driver Hannah Hackemeyer. The SUV, carrying Rao’s daughter and her friends, crashed on a residential road at an estimated speed of 100 km/h over the legal limit. Crash data revealed that the vehicle did not decelerate before the impact. While Rao’s daughter and Hackemeyer managed to escape the wreckage, 16-year-old passenger Sophia Lekiachvili succumbed to her injuries in hospital. Charges Filed
Hackemeyer faces multiple charges, including vehicular homicide and impaired driving. The district attorney’s office stated that the teens had been drinking wine in the Rao family kitchen earlier in the evening, reportedly with the parents’ knowledge. Rao and his wife are accused of allowing the teens to leave the home and drive, despite the apparent risks. Flair Airlines’ Response
The airline, headquartered in Canada, emphasized its commitment to maintaining business stability during this challenging time. However, no further details about Rao’s employment status or the company’s internal response were disclosed. This case has garnered significant public attention, raising questions about accountability and the role of adults in preventing underage drinking and impaired driving. Legal Proceedings Ongoing
As the legal process continues, the case highlights the devastating consequences of impaired driving and the responsibilities of adults to safeguard young individuals. Scudrunners.com

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