The family of a man who lost his wife in an alleged drink driving car crash on their wedding day has thanked everyone after hundreds of thousands of dollars were raised through a fundraiser.
Aric Hutchinson was supposed to be having the happiest day of his life, marrying his wife Sam in South Carolina.
However, a driver – since named as Jamie Komoroski – allegedly crashed into a golf cart that the couple, as well as their relatives Ben and Brogan Garrett, were on.
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Sam was killed in the crash, whereas Aric and Ben suffered serious injuries.
Mercifully, Brogan escaped without serious injury.
Aric awoke a few days after the incident to begin a lengthy recovery process, as well as to help with the tragic process of organising his new wife’s funeral alongside her family.
So far, a GoFundMe page has raised over $709,000, and Aric’s family have thanked the public for the generous response to his horrific ordeal.
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His mother, Annette Hutchinson, wrote: “We wish to thank everyone who has given us hope through thoughtful words of encouragement and generous donations.
“Also the communities of support in Folly Beach, James Island, Charleston, South Carolina and back home in Utah, who are helping us get through this a day at a time.
“Also, our hearts go out to the first on the scene, first responders, the police, and all the staff at MUSC hospital, we are forever changed by the love we have received.”
Of her son’s injuries, she said: “From the accident Aric received multiple injuries including two broken legs, one which had to be surgically repaired.
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“Broken bones in his face which also had to be surgically repaired.
“Broken vertebrae in his back, brain bleeds, and numerous cuts with stitches.
“He is physically recovering at home while trying to come to terms with the loss of his beautiful wife.
“Now he is doing the unimaginable of planning Sam’s funeral along with her family.”
25-year-old Komoroski has been charged with one count of reckless vehicular homicide, as well as three counts of felony driving under the influence (DUI) resulting in death and/or great injury.
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Her lawyers have asked for people not to ‘rush to judgement’, claiming ‘all facts will come to light’ when the case reaches the court.
Attorneys Nathan S. Williams and Christopher S. Gramiccioni said in a statement: “We cannot fathom what the families are going through and offer our deepest sympathies.
“We simply ask that there not be a rush to judgment.
“Our court system is founded upon principles of justice and mercy and that is where all facts will come to light.”
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If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677
Tom Wood