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Topics: South Carolina, Crime, US News
Callum Jones
A groom who's been through unimaginable heartache over the past two-and-a-half years after his wife was killed on their wedding day has accepted a final settlement.
Aric Hutchinson and his newly-wedded wife Samantha Miller had left their reception in Folly Beach, South Carolina, in a golf cart when Jamie Lee Komoroski, who was highly intoxicated at the time, struck the vehicle in April 2023 at 65mph.
Samantha tragically lost her life, while Hutchinson was left seriously injured and sustained a brain injury as a result of the collision.
Komoroski pleaded guilty to two counts of felony driving under the influence (DUI) resulting in great bodily injury, as well as one count each of felony DUI resulting in death and reckless homicide.
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She received a 25-year prison sentence for DUI resulting Samantha's death, as well as 15 years for DUI causing Hutchinson's injuries and 10 years for reckless homicide.
Komoroski is serving her sentences concurrently.
Hutchinson previously filed for a wrongful death suit against Komoroski and a number of South Carolina bars who had reportedly served her on the day of Samatha's death.
In June 2024, the suit was partially settled, with Hutchinson, Samantha's estate, and the two other crash victims receiving $1.3 million.
After attorney and legal fees, the total was over $863,000, WDBJ7 reports.
Those paying the bill included a number of bars in South Carolina's Lowcountry, as well as Hutchinson's Progressive policy and Enterprise Rent-a-Car.
Hutchinson has since accepted a final settlement in the wrongful death suit, which will see him receive another $104,000 in damages after Komoroski's vehicle insurer were forced to cough up $160,000.
The rest of the money will be used to cover attorney fees and other costs.
During Komoroski's sentencing in December 2024, Hutchinson spoke about his wife’s last words to him.
Speaking in the courtroom, he said: “She said she didn't want the night to end, I kissed her on the head, the next thing I knew I woke up in hospital.”
He also detailed the heartbreaking moment he realized his new wife had died.
"I saw my mom wearing the same wedding dress as she had on the night before. Asked for Sam and knew instantly she wasn't there," Hutchinson said.
Komoroski showed some remorse as she was sentenced, telling the court room: "On the night of April 22, 2023, I chose to drink and drive, which resulted in the death of Samantha Miller.
“This is the worst decision I have ever made in my life.
“I want them to know how sorry I am from the bottom of my heart and that I take full responsibility for my actions. I will always be devastated, deeply ashamed, and terribly sorry for what I have done.”