Ithaca Woman Sentenced for 2023 Fatal Crash

Juria Vanness received 2 1/3 to 7 years in prison for causing a crash that killed Millport resident Alexei Seymour.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 3:41pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car windshield reflecting the harsh glare of a camera flash, conceptually representing the aftermath of a fatal crash caused by impaired driving.The shattered remains of a vehicle involved in a fatal crash caused by an impaired driver serve as a sobering reminder of the deadly consequences of reckless behavior on the road.Ithaca Today

A 43-year-old Ithaca woman named Juria Vanness has been sentenced to 2 1/3 to 7 years in state prison for causing a fatal crash in 2023 that killed 25-year-old Millport resident Alexei Seymour. Vanness was driving with a revoked license and under the influence of methamphetamine when she tried to pass a pickup truck with a trailer, causing both vehicles to collide with an oncoming semi truck.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of impaired and reckless driving, as well as the need for stricter enforcement and penalties for those who drive with revoked licenses. The crash also underscores the risks posed by distracted and impaired driving on rural roads.

The details

According to the Chemung County District Attorney's Office, Vanness was driving on October 26, 2023 when she attempted to pass a pickup truck with a trailer being driven by Alexei Seymour. Vanness struck the trailer, causing both vehicles to cross into the opposite lane and collide with an oncoming semi truck. Seymour was pronounced dead at the scene, while Vanness was airlifted to a hospital with serious injuries. Vanness was arrested in 2025 and pleaded guilty to vehicular manslaughter in February.

  • The fatal crash occurred on October 26, 2023.
  • Vanness was arrested in 2025.
  • Vanness pleaded guilty to vehicular manslaughter in February.

The players

Juria Vanness

A 43-year-old Ithaca woman who was sentenced to 2 1/3 to 7 years in state prison for causing a fatal crash in 2023 while driving with a revoked license and under the influence of methamphetamine.

Alexei Seymour

A 25-year-old Millport resident who was killed in the 2023 crash caused by Juria Vanness.

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The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for stronger enforcement and penalties for impaired and reckless driving, as well as the importance of addressing substance abuse issues that can lead to such devastating consequences on the roads.