Drunk Driver Hit Wedding Golf Cart at Triple Legal Alcohol Limit
Jamie Lee Komoroski received the maximum 25-year prison sentence on December 3, 2024, for a drunk driving crash that killed a bride still wearing her wedding dress in South Carolina. The 27-year-old former New Jersey resident pleaded guilty to reckless homicide and felony DUI charges at the Charleston County courthouse. Komoroski struck a golf cart carrying newlyweds Samantha Miller and Aric Hutchinson on April 28, 2023, while driving at 65 mph in a 25 mph zone with a blood alcohol level more than three times the legal limit. The impact threw the golf cart 100 yards and left Hutchinson with severe injuries.
5 Key Points
- Komoroski’s blood alcohol level measured 0.26% at the time of the crash
- The bride died at the scene while still wearing her wedding dress
- The groom suffered a brain injury and multiple broken bones
- Komoroski pleaded guilty to reckless homicide and multiple felony DUI charges
- The defendant faces concurrent sentences totaling 25 years in prison
Night of Fatal Choices Led to Bride’s Death
Komoroski’s evening began with a bar-hopping spree across multiple establishments on April 28, 2023. Her decision to drive after drinking resulted in catastrophic consequences on Folly Beach Road, where she struck the newlyweds’ golf cart at 65 mph—more than double the posted speed limit. The force of the impact propelled the cart 100 yards, instantly claiming the life of Samantha Miller, who had married her husband just hours before. Police reports revealed Komoroski’s blood alcohol content reached 0.26%, demonstrating severe intoxication at more than three times South Carolina’s legal limit. The crash site, an ordinarily peaceful stretch of beach road, became the scene of what prosecutors called an entirely preventable tragedy.
Groom’s Heartbreaking Testimony Moves Courtroom
Aric Hutchinson’s emotional testimony in the Charleston County courthouse captured the devastating aftermath of losing his bride mere hours after their wedding. “I wish I had died that night. I wish I had seen it coming. I’d have jumped off the golf cart so you would only have run me over,” Hutchinson told the court, his voice breaking. Beyond the emotional trauma, he detailed an extensive list of physical injuries, including brain trauma and multiple fractures requiring constant medical attention. Their final moment together haunts him still: “On the golf cart, she told me she didn’t want the night to end and I kissed her on the forehead and then the next thing I remember is waking up in the hospital.” Hutchinson’s recovery continues, complicated by both physical rehabilitation and psychological counseling.
Maximum Sentence Reflects Crime’s Severity
Judge Deadra Jefferson delivered a comprehensive sentencing package that addressed the full scope of Komoroski’s actions. The 25-year maximum sentence for felony DUI causing death runs concurrently with 15-year sentences for each count of felony DUI causing significant bodily injury and a 10-year sentence for reckless homicide. The judge’s decision came after nearly three hours of emotional testimony from both families. Komoroski addressed the court, acknowledging her alcohol addiction and pledging to dedicate her life to preventing similar tragedies: “I will live the rest of my life with intense regret for what happened that night.” The sentence represents one of the harshest penalties imposed in Charleston County for a DUI-related death.
Families Grapple with Permanent Loss
Brad Warner, Miller’s father, delivered a searing condemnation during the victim impact statements, refusing to accept Komoroski’s apology. “The rest of my life I’m going to hate you and when I arrive in hell and you come there, I will open the door for you,” Warner declared, emphasizing the permanent void left in their family. Hutchinson’s pursuit of justice resulted in $863,000 in legal settlements from three bars that served Komoroski, her insurance company, and the rental car company. These financial compensations, while substantial, barely scratch the surface of the emotional and physical toll inflicted by the crash. Family members from both sides filled the courtroom, their presence underscoring how one night of reckless behavior shattered multiple lives forever.
FAQ
Q: What was Komoroski’s blood alcohol level at the time of the crash?
A: Her blood alcohol level was 0.26%, more than three times the legal limit to drive.
Q: How fast was Komoroski driving when the crash occurred?
A: She was driving 65 mph in a 25 mph zone on Folly Beach Road.
Q: What was the total prison sentence given to Komoroski?
A: She received a maximum sentence of 25 years, with additional concurrent sentences.
Q: Did the groom receive any compensation for the crash?
A: Yes, Aric Hutchinson won $863,000 in legal settlements from multiple parties, including bars, insurance, and the rental car company.
Q: Did Komoroski admit guilt for the crash?
A: Yes, she pleaded guilty to reckless homicide, felony DUI causing death, and two counts of felony DUI causing significant bodily injury.
Citations
The Associated Press (December 2, 2024). Former N.J. woman driving drunk who killed bride still in her wedding dress sentenced. NJ.com. https://www.nj.com/news/2024/12/former-nj-woman-driving-drunk-who-killed-bride-still-in-her-wedding-dress-sentenced-to-25-years-in-prison.html
