Aric Hutchinson, whose bride, Samantha Miller, was tragically killed in a car crash on their wedding night, is set to receive nearly $1 million in a settlement. This settlement comes as a result of legal actions taken against several businesses and an individual linked to the incident, which occurred on April 28, 2023, in South Carolina.
The Tragic Incident
On the evening of their wedding, Samantha Miller, 34, and Aric Hutchinson were leaving their reception in Folly Beach. They were traveling in a golf cart when a rented Toyota Camry, driven by Jamie Lee Komoroski, struck them. Komoroski was reportedly driving at 65 mph on a road with a 25 mph speed limit. The impact was so severe that it threw the golf cart 100 yards (91.44 meters). Samantha Miller died at the scene, still wearing her wedding dress, while Aric Hutchinson survived with a brain injury and multiple broken bones.
Legal Proceedings and Settlement
Following the crash, Aric Hutchinson filed a wrongful death lawsuit against several businesses and individuals. The lawsuit accused the bars—The Drop In Bar & Deli, the Crab Shack, and Snapper Jacks—of serving alcohol to an already intoxicated Komoroski, who then got behind the wheel and caused the fatal crash. The suit also named Progressive auto insurance and Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
Earlier this week, Charleston County Circuit Court Judge Roger Young approved a settlement of approximately $863,300 for Aric Hutchinson. The settlement breaks down as follows:
- The Drop In Bar & Deli
- The Crab Shack
- Snapper Jacks
- Progressive auto insurance
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car
While the settlements amount to $1.3 million, the actual payout will be less after deducting attorney and legal fees.
The Driver: Jamie Lee Komoroski
Jamie Lee Komoroski, the driver of the rented Toyota Camry, faces multiple charges. In September, she was charged with felony driving under the influence resulting in death, reckless homicide, and two counts of felony driving under the influence resulting in great bodily injury. Komoroski, who is currently out on bond, had a blood-alcohol concentration over three times the legal limit at the time of the crash. Witnesses reported that she had been “slurred and staggered” across several bars around Folly Beach before the incident.
Impact on Aric Hutchinson and Families
The tragic death of Samantha Miller has had a profound impact on Aric Hutchinson, her family, and the community. Samantha was remembered as a loving and vibrant individual, whose life was cut short in a senseless act of drunk driving. Aric Hutchinson continues to recover from his injuries, both physical and emotional, while grappling with the immense loss.
Wider Implications and Awareness
This tragic incident has brought renewed attention to the dangers of drunk driving and the responsibilities of establishments that serve alcohol. The case underscores the importance of vigilant alcohol service policies and the legal consequences of failing to adhere to them. It also highlights the devastating impact that impaired driving can have on victims and their families.
The Road Ahead
As Aric Hutchinson receives the settlement, his focus remains on healing and moving forward. The legal resolution provides some financial relief, but the emotional and psychological scars from that fateful night will take much longer to heal. The settlement does not bring Samantha back, but it represents a form of accountability for those who contributed to the circumstances of her death.
The settlement in Aric Hutchinson’s case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of drunk driving and the importance of responsible alcohol service. It also highlights the enduring pain and suffering caused by such tragic events. As the legal proceedings continue for Jamie Lee Komoroski, the focus remains on ensuring justice for Samantha Miller and providing support for Aric Hutchinson as he navigates life after this heartbreaking loss. The community, along with the families involved, hopes that this case will foster greater awareness and prevention efforts to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
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