Jamie Komoroski Pleads Guilty in Fatal DUI Crash That Claimed Bride’s Life
By CC News Network

Charleston, SC — December 2, 2024

In a case that has captured national attention, Jamie Komoroski pleaded guilty today to charges stemming from the April 28, 2023, DUI crash that tragically ended the life of newlywed Samantha Miller and severely injured three others, including her husband, Aric Hutchinson. The plea, entered at the Charleston County Courthouse, avoids a trial and closes a painful chapter for the families involved.

Komoroski, 27, admitted to one count of reckless homicide, one count of felony DUI resulting in death, and two counts of felony DUI resulting in great bodily injury. Her guilty plea ensures accountability and spares Samantha’s loved ones the emotional toll of reliving the tragedy during a trial.

Table of Contents

The Incident

On the night of April 28, Komoroski, a Coastal Carolina University graduate, was driving 65 mph in a 25-mph zone on Folly Beach when her car collided with a golf cart carrying Samantha, Aric, and two family members. Samantha, who had been celebrating her wedding just hours earlier, was pronounced dead at the scene. Aric and the two others suffered critical injuries.

Authorities reported Komoroski’s blood alcohol content at 0.261%, more than three times the legal limit. Witnesses described her as intoxicated and unsteady, and police noted that she refused field sobriety tests following the crash.

Heartfelt Testimonies from Samantha’s Family

Samantha’s family members delivered emotional statements in court, directly addressing Komoroski about the grief and devastation caused by her actions.

Lisa Miller, Samantha’s mother, broke down as she shared memories of her daughter. “Sam and I had a bond,” she said tearfully, adding that her daughter wanted everyone to feel loved. She urged the court to deliver the maximum sentence, reminding Komoroski that “Sam doesn’t get to come back to life.”

Samantha’s sister, Mandi Jenkins, spoke of her anger and heartbreak. She told the court about the pain her two daughters, who served as flower girls at Samantha’s wedding, feel at losing their beloved aunt. “She had a passion for life,” Jenkins said. “I won’t get to see her smile or hear her laugh again.”

Samantha’s biological father, Brad Warner, addressed Komoroski directly. “You took such a beautiful person away,” he exclaimed. “For the rest of my life, I’m going to hate you. You’ve ruined so many lives and taken no responsibility.”

Samantha’s husband, Aric Hutchinson, also spoke of the night that changed his life forever. “I kissed her on the forehead, and the next thing I know, I woke up in a hospital,” he said. “She was the wrong person to die that night.”

Komoroski’s Plea and Sentencing

Following her guilty plea, Jamie Komoroski was sentenced to 25 years in prison for her role in the fatal crash. Her sentencing includes:

10 years and a $5,000 fine for felony DUI resulting in great bodily injury,
15 years and a $5,100 fine for felony DUI resulting in death,
A total of 25 years and $10,100 in fines, with sentences to run concurrently.

Komoroski was also given credit for time served during her pretrial detention.

During the hearing, Komoroski expressed remorse, highlighting her participation in Alcoholics Anonymous and her commitment to rehabilitation. However, the family’s statements painted a stark picture of the irreversible harm caused by her actions.

Legal and Broader Implications

The crash has reignited discussions about South Carolina’s DUI laws and alcohol enforcement. Advocates are calling for stricter regulations and increased awareness campaigns to prevent similar tragedies in a state with one of the highest rates of alcohol-related traffic incidents.

In addition to criminal charges, Komoroski was named in a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Aric Hutchinson, which also implicated several bars and restaurants accused of overserving her on the night of the crash. A substantial settlement was recently awarded to Hutchinson, though the exact amount remains undisclosed.

Conclusion

Jamie Komoroski’s guilty plea and sentencing bring a measure of closure to this heartbreaking case. While justice has been served in the courtroom, the loss felt by Samantha Miller’s loved ones remains immeasurable. This case serves as a call to action for stricter DUI laws, greater accountability, and a renewed commitment to road safety in South Carolina and beyond.

Stay with CC News Network for continuing coverage on this case and other major stories. Follow us on social media for updates, investigations, and insights from James Seidel and the CC News Network team.

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