US woman admits drink-driving in accident that killed bride on wedding day

A US woman has pleaded guilty to drink-driving for killing a newlywed bride who was riding in a golf cart on her wedding night.

Jamie Lee Komoroski was sentenced to 25 years in prison for the South Carolina accident last year that killed Samantha Miller while she was still wearing her wedding dress.

The victim’s husband, Aric Hutchinson, and two of his family members, who were also in the vehicle, were among the three other people injured.

He cried as he told the court his new wife “wanted the night to never end,” the Associated Press reported.

The collision occurred in April 2023 in the town of Folly Beach as the newlyweds were being returned to their accommodation just hours after their ceremony.

Komoroski was accused by prosecutors of drinking at several bars and then driving at 65 miles per hour (104 km/h) in a 25 mph zone. Their car crashed into the couple’s golf cart, which was driven by Mr. Hutchinson’s brother-in-law.

According to a report released by state officials after the accident, a blood test showed she was three times over the alcohol limit. She had previously refused to provide officers with breath samples, according to a police incident report.

On Monday at the Charleston County Courthouse, Komoroski admitted charges including driving under the influence causing death. She received multiple sentences, which will be imposed concurrently.

Before her sentencing, she addressed the court, expressing regret and saying she took full responsibility.

Mr Hutchinson, who suffered a brain injury and broken bones in the accident, also spoke. Although he said he had no memory of the incident itself, he was able to describe his last conversation with his wife.

“On the golf cart she told me she didn’t want the night to end and I kissed her on the forehead. The next thing I remember is waking up in the hospital,” he said.

After the verdict, he said he felt “the punishment fit the crime,” according to CBS News affiliate WCSC.

“I think she’s sorry,” Mr. Hutchinson said. “However, that doesn’t change the fact that Sam isn’t here, my wife isn’t here, the family we had planned, all of our injuries. So it’s definitely going to take some time.”