Anthony ‘AJ’ Scott, a former mayor of Buchanan, Georgia, and state trooper, was sentenced on Wednesday to 20 years for a 2015 vehicular homicide that resulted in the deaths of two teenage girls. The crash, which occurred along Highway 27, also left two others seriously injured.
What Happened
On September 26, 2015, Anthony Scott was driving his state patrol vehicle at 90 mph in a 55 mph zone when he collided with a car carrying four teenagers making a left turn on Highway 27. Despite braking, Scott’s vehicle struck the passenger side of the car, leading to the deaths of 17-year-old Kylie Lindsey and 16-year-old Isabella Chinchilla. Two other teenagers were seriously injured.
During the trial, the defense argued that wet road conditions and the driver’s failure to yield contributed to the crash, while the prosecution focused on Scott’s excessive speed.
Trial and Sentencing
The trial, which had initially ended in a mistrial in 2019, was reopened in August 2025. After a two-week trial, Scott was convicted of vehicular homicide in the death of Isabella Chinchilla but was not convicted for the death of Kylie Lindsey. On Wednesday, Judge Ericia Tisinger sentenced Scott to 20 years, with 10 years to be served in prison.
“This has been a long 10 years. It has taken a long time to reach this phase in the trial,” Judge Tisinger said during the sentencing. She expressed sympathy for the victims’ families but emphasized that Scott’s actions had consequences, even though he had no intention to harm anyone.
Consequences and Reactions
After his conviction, Scott was removed from his position as mayor of Buchanan. An acting mayor has taken on the role in the interim.
Scott’s lawyer read a letter during the sentencing in which Scott expressed his remorse and apologized to the families of the victims.
Closing Thoughts
The case has drawn attention to the consequences of reckless driving, particularly by those in positions of authority. While the loss of the young victims cannot be undone, the sentencing offers some sense of accountability for the tragic crash.
Closing Line:
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
