NJ Native Who Killed Bride In DUI Crash Hours After Wedding Sentenced

FOLLY BEACH, NC — The New Jersey native who was driving more than twice the speed limit and had a blood alcohol content more than three times the legal limit when she crashed into a golf cart, killing a bride on her wedding day, was sentenced to 25 years in prison, according to the Associated Press.

Jamie Lee Komoroski, a 27-year-old native of Hunterdon County, pleaded guilty at the Charleston County courthouse to reckless homicide, felony DUI causing death and two counts of felony DUI causing great bodily injury before her sentencing.

The 2023 crash killed Samantha Miller and injured the groom, Aric Hutchinson, who cried in court as he recalled his final moments as husband and wife, according to the Associated Press.

“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 said, according to the Associated Press. Miller was still in her wedding dress at the time of the crash.

Komoroski was sentenced to the maximum of 25 years in prison for felony DUI causing death by Judge Deadra Jefferson. She also was sentenced to 15 years in prison for each count of felony DUI causing great bodily injury and 10 years for reckless homicide. The sentences will all run at the same time.

Data from Komoroski's vehicle indicated she was traveling around 65 miles per hour, officials said. The speed limit on the island near Charleston is 25 miles per hour. Her blood alcohol content exceeded three times the legal level, according to a toxicology report.

The groom suffered a brain injury and numerous broken bones. The cart was thrown 100 yards (91 meters) by the crash.

After pleading guilty, Komoroski said she realized now she was addicted to alcohol and selfishly didn't care how her actions affected others. She promised to spend the rest of her life helping addicts and warning of the dangers of drinking and driving. She said she was “devastated, deeply ashamed and sorry” for what she did.

“I wish I could go back and undo this terrible tragedy. But I cannot. I will live the rest of my life with intense regret for what happened that night,” she said.

She said all her work will be dedicated to Miller's memory.

“I pray God stands by the side of my victims and their families and loved ones for the rest of their lives,” Komoroski said.

Hutchinson won $863,000 in legal settlements from three bars that served Komoroski as well as her insurance firm and the company she rented her car from.

Prior to the sentencing, Miller's father told Komoroski he was disgusted that she appeared to never take responsibility. He told her she could apologize, but he wouldn't listen to a word.

“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,” Brad Warner said. “You have ruined so many people's lives.”