Justice delayed should not mean justice denied.

Three years after a devastating wrong-way crash took the life of 23 year-old University of Georgia Ph.D. student Beth Buchanan, her family continues to seek accountability.

In February 2023, Beth was driving her mother, Julie, to the Atlanta Airport in the early hours after a weekend visit. A drunk driver going the wrong way on a divided highway and driving with no headlights struck them head-on. Beth was killed. Julie survived after weeks of hospitalization.

The driver who caused the crash, Cesar Raudales Macias of Athens, GA, fled the state after he was released from the hospital and remains a fugitive.

Beth was more than a headline. She was an accomplished scholar, a daughter, a friend, and a future leader whose contributions to the world were just beginning.

In December 2024, the Buchanans filed a civil lawsuit against Mr. Macias. The Athens Clarke County State Court has already ruled that Mr. Macias caused Beth’s death. This week, Beth’s family, friends, and colleagues, gathered to presented evidence to the Court about Beth’s incredible life and what was taken from her when Mr. Macias caused her death.

The Buchanans did not file the case to seek compensation and have never expected to receive any money from Mr. Macias. Instead, they are seeking a judicial recognition of the value of Beth’s life and a judgment against Macias that reflects that immense value. While no legal action can restore what was lost, the case represents an important step toward recognition, accountability, and justice.

The Buchanans also hope that pursuing a civil judgment will bring publicity to this tragic event and end the continued manhunt for Mr. Macias. There is currently a $15,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Macias. If anyone has information about his whereabouts, please contact the U.S. Marshalls at 1-877-926-8332. More information can also be found, here.

We are proud to stand with Beth’s family as they pursue the justice and answers they deserve.