In Decatur, Georgia, a tragic story has unfolded that highlights the dangers of underage drinking and the consequences of poor decisions. A Georgia couple is now facing serious charges after authorities say they allowed their daughter and her friends to drink alcohol at their home. What followed was a devastating car crash that claimed the life of one teenager.
It all began back in February when 18-year-old Hannah Hackemeyer drove under the influence after a night of drinking at the home of Sumanth Rao, 50, and Anindita Rao, 49. Tragically, Hackemeyer lost control of the car she was driving, a blue Mazda CX-5, which flipped over in a residential area of DeKalb County, just north of Atlanta. The crash happened shortly after midnight on February 24, and authorities say Hackemeyer was driving at a shocking 98 miles per hour.
The accident left one of her passengers, 18-year-old Sophia Lekiachvili, fatally injured. Another passenger, 17-year-old Ananya Rao, the daughter of the homeowners, was seriously hurt but has since recovered.
Hackemeyer is now facing heavy legal consequences, including three counts of homicide by vehicle in the first degree, driving under the influence, and other charges. If convicted, she could spend up to 30 years in prison.
The couple who hosted the party, Sumanth and Anindita Rao, are also facing legal trouble. Prosecutors have charged them with involuntary manslaughter, reckless conduct, and maintaining a disorderly house. If found guilty, they could face up to 10 years in prison for the manslaughter charge alone, plus additional time for the other offenses.
According to DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston, the Raos’ home had a reputation as “the party house.” It was a place where teens often gathered to drink during events like Halloween, homecoming, and even the first day of school. Boston remarked, “It’s a miracle nothing happened before this.”
The crash occurred after Hackemeyer, along with Ananya and Sophia, left the Raos’ house around 11:45 p.m. on February 23, taking an open bottle of wine with them. Less than an hour later, police discovered the wreckage.
Sophia’s death has left a deep void in her community, and the case has raised important questions about parental responsibility and the dangers of enabling underage drinking. While Hackemeyer had already been arrested earlier this year and released on bond, Sumanth and Anindita Rao are now in custody. Anindita was arrested recently, and Sumanth, who was traveling, has agreed to turn himself in.
As the legal process unfolds, this heartbreaking case serves as a somber reminder of how one night of bad decisions can change lives forever.
