Unalaska Tragedy: Families Still Awaiting Trial Nearly Five Years After Fatal Car Crash

Families in Unalaska are still waiting for a trial nearly five years after a fatal automobile wreck. The KUCB report by Maggie Nelson on January 22, 2024, illuminates the lengthy court battle over the deaths of 18-year-old Kiara R. Haist and 16-year-old Karly McDonald.

Photo from Alaska Public Media

Unalaska Car Crash: Legal Delays and Setbacks as Families Await Trial for Teens’ Deaths

High school student Dustin Ruckman drove his pickup off Unalaska’s Ulakta Head Cliff in May 2019. The vehicle crashed over 1,000 feet down the mountain, killing Haist and McDonald. Since then, Haist’s mother, Diana Rentaria, has attended hearings, arraignments, and trial demands justice.

The COVID-19 outbreak and unexpected issues like Ruckman’s lawyer’s cancer treatment have slowed the legal process. Despite hope for an August 2023 trial date, the defense was given a continuance, pushing the trial until the end of the year.

As the trial approached, a new issue arose. Superior Court Judge Herman Walker Jr. recused himself after the defense nominated Julia Moudy, a longstanding friend, as lead counsel. With Moudy involved, Walker thought it inappropriate to preside. Another setback occurred when the trial date was delayed again.

READ ALSO: Justice Sought As Albuquerque Police Apprehend Suspect In Deadly 2023 Shooting

Justice Delayed: Frustrations and Hopes as Unalaska Families Await Trial in Tragic Car Crash

Karly’s mother, Alyssa McDonald, was frustrated and suspected intentional delays. She stressed finality and an impartial jury to evaluate the alleged law, ethics, and trust violations. Moudy, Ruckman’s new lead lawyer, acknowledged the necessity to study court records before trial, extending the process. McDonald acknowledged the need for fair and due process but emphasized the need for fair treatment of victims.

Families are distraught at the trial date. Because Moudy needs time to catch up, McDonald worries the trial may be delayed until September. Despite obstacles, mothers attend hearings and advocate for reform. Rentaria wants to know what happened on Mount Ballyhoo that afternoon, missing her daughter. She will strive for justice even if it means accepting that time does not heal the grief of losing someone so dear.

The families’ painful search for closure continues in a complicated judicial process with unforeseen developments. The report depicts their relentless pursuit of justice despite the emotional toll of a tragedy that has yet to heal.

READ ALSO: Woman Arrested For Stabbing Driver In Neck During Argument In Lewisville