Aric Hutchinson spoke in court of his debilitating injuries as his wife’s killer was sentenced to 25 years in prison.
A day that was meant to mark the start of their new lives was turned upside down for Aric and his wife Samantha Miller.
Back in April 2023 the pair got married in South Carolina and left the wedding reception surrounded by their friends and family on a golf cart.
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Tragically, the pair were struck by a drunk driver that ended up killing Samantha and giving Aric life-changing injuries.
The drunk driver, Jamie Lee Komoroski, was sentenced on December 2 to 25 years in jail for driving into the newlyweds at 65mph after they left their reception on Folly Beach.
During the sentencing, Aric spoke about his hardship since the incident and revealed his wife’s last words to him.
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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 revealed the heartbreaking moment he realized his new wife had died.
He said: “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.”
Speaking about his own wellbeing, he said: “I've seen more doctors, therapists, and psychiatrists than I can count, and I still feel the same as I did when I found out that day.
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“I wish I had died that night. I wish I had seen it coming. I'd have jumped off the golf cart so that you'd only have run me over.
“We did not get hit, we got ran through at 65mph.”
At the time of the crash, Komoroski’s blood alcohol content was three times the legal limit and smashed into the golf court that was carrying the newlyweds and two of his family members.
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Komoroski was sentenced to 25 years for DUI causing Samantha's death, as well as 15 years for DUI causing Hutchinson's injuries and 10 years for reckless homicide and her sentences will run concurrently.
Speaking to the court, she did appear to show remorse for her actions.
She said: “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.
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“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.”
Gerrard Kaonga