Jamie Lee Komoroski, the woman responsible for a drunk-driving crash that killed a bride still in her wedding dress and injured her husband, was sentenced to 25 years in prison on Monday. The tragedy, which occurred in April 2023, shocked the South Carolina community and left families devastated.
The Tragic Night
Samantha Miller, 34, had just married Aric Hutchinson on Folly Beach when the golf cart carrying them and two others was struck by Komoroski’s vehicle. Komoroski, 27, was driving 65 mph on a road with a 25 mph speed limit and had a blood-alcohol level of 0.26%, over three times the legal limit.
The crash hurled the golf cart nearly 100 yards, killing Miller instantly. Hutchinson suffered severe injuries, including broken bones and a brain injury. He recounted the heartbreak in court, describing how his last memory with Miller was her expressing joy over their wedding day.
Courtroom Drama and Sentencing
Komoroski pleaded guilty to reckless homicide, felony DUI causing death, and two counts of felony DUI causing great bodily injury. Judge Deadra Jefferson sentenced her to 25 years in prison, the maximum for felony DUI causing death. Additional sentences for related charges will run concurrently.
During the sentencing, Komoroski expressed remorse, acknowledging her alcohol addiction and the irreparable harm caused by her actions.
“I am devastated, deeply ashamed, and sorry. I will live the rest of my life with intense regret for what happened that night,” she said, vowing to dedicate her life to combating drunk driving and supporting addiction recovery efforts.
Family Reactions
The hearing, lasting nearly three hours, was filled with emotional testimonies. Miller’s father, Brad Warner, condemned Komoroski’s actions, expressing anger over what he perceived as her lack of accountability.
“The rest of my life I’m going to hate you,” Warner said. “You have ruined so many people’s lives.”
Hutchinson also spoke, detailing his ongoing physical and emotional pain. He described wishing he could have prevented the tragedy, saying, “I wish I had died that night. I think about it every single day.”
Legal and Financial Fallout
In the aftermath of the crash, Hutchinson secured $863,000 in settlements from the bars that served Komoroski alcohol, her insurance provider, and the car rental company. The settlements were a small reprieve for a life permanently altered by the tragedy.
A Life Marked by Regret
Komoroski, visibly emotional throughout the hearing, promised to honor Miller’s memory through advocacy and support for those struggling with addiction.
“I pray God stands by the side of my victims and their families,” she said.
Despite her apology, Miller’s family remains haunted by their loss, with many calling for the harshest possible punishment to reflect the irrevocable damage done.
