A heartbreaking case that followed a tragic wedding night crash in Folly Beach, South Carolina, has taken a new turn. The wrongful death lawsuit filed by Aric Hutchinson, the groom who lost his bride just hours after their wedding, has officially dropped Taco Boy, a local taco restaurant, from the legal case.
Taco Boy Cleared in Lawsuit Over Bride’s Tragic DUI Death in Folly Beach
Aric Hutchinson and Samantha Miller had just tied the knot in a beachside wedding in April 2023. That night, while returning from their reception in a golf cart, the couple and two others were struck by an alleged drunk driver, Jamie Komoroski. The impact was devastating—Miller was killed at the scene, still wearing her wedding dress.
The driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) was later found to be more than three times the legal limit.
Why Was Taco Boy Named in the Lawsuit?
At the time of the crash, Komoroski was a newly hired employee at Taco Boy, and the lawsuit claimed that she had been out “bar hopping” with other employees during an unofficial gathering organized by her supervisor. It alleged that excessive alcohol had been served and consumed, and the restaurant should be held partially responsible for allowing that kind of environment.
However, Taco Boy consistently denied that Komoroski had visited the restaurant or participated in any work-sponsored event on the night of the crash.
After Komoroski’s Deposition, Taco Boy Was Cleared
Following a deposition given by Komoroski, it became clear she had not been at Taco Boy that evening. The restaurant released a statement saying the allegations against them were “wholly unsubstantiated” and that neither Taco Boy nor its insurance companies had paid any amount toward a settlement.
Karalee Fallert, Taco Boy’s co-founder and CEO, shared:
We are relieved this matter has been resolved and that the facts have exonerated Taco Boy and our team. Our hearts remain with Aric Hutchinson’s family as they continue to heal from this unimaginable tragedy.”
21 Other Defendants Also Dropped
In addition to Taco Boy, 21 other businesses and individuals named in the lawsuit were also dismissed. Some Folly Beach businesses did reportedly settle with Miller’s estate, though Taco Boy was not among them.
What Happens Now?
The focus of the legal proceedings now remains on Jamie Komoroski, who still faces criminal charges for DUI resulting in death. The Hutchinson family continues to grieve and seek justice for the devastating loss of Samantha Miller.
A Tragic Reminder
This case continues to serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of drunk driving. The bride’s death on what should have been the happiest night of her life has touched hearts across the country. While Taco Boy has been cleared of any wrongdoing, the tragedy remains, and the community of Folly Beach continues to mourn.
With Taco Boy and several other parties cleared from the lawsuit, the case narrows its focus to the central cause of the tragedy—reckless driving under the influence. As the legal process moves forward, one thing is clear: no resolution can fully heal the heartbreak experienced by Aric Hutchinson and the families involved. But with the truth coming to light, the hope is that accountability and healing can still follow.
