A man who was hospitalized and lost his bride shortly after their wedding has received over USD $600,000 (AUD $902,418) in funds raised.
The tragic incident took place in South Carolina, where Samantha Miller and Aric Hutchinson were celebrating their wedding. As they finished their first dance, the couple boarded a golf cart to head towards their reception at Folly Beach.
Unfortunately, while driving, a drunk driver reportedly crashed into the back of their vehicle, causing the devastating accident.
According to a report from the Associated Press, Jamie Lee Komoroski was driving the car and was traveling at 65mph during the collision, despite the posted speed limit being 25mph.
Tragically, the bride passed away at the scene of the accident, while Aric was transported to the hospital and is currently in critical condition.
Following the incident, Komoroski was taken into custody and charged with reckless vehicular homicide, as well as three counts of driving under the influence, resulting in death or serious bodily injury.
In response to the tragedy, Aric's mother, Annette Hutchinson, has set up a GoFundMe page to support her son's medical expenses. The community has come together to raise funds for this cause.
In the fundraising description, Annette identifies herself as Aric Hutchinson's mother and requests assistance, stating:
"Hi, my name is Annette Hutchinson, I am the mother of Aric Hutchinson, the groom."
"Aric lost the love of his life when my new daughter-in-law Samantha 'Sam' Hutchinson was tragically killed by a drunk driver moments after the picture above while leaving her wedding reception on April 28th in Folly Beach, South Carolina."
"Aric is in serious condition and has had one of two reconstruction surgeries, numerous broken bones, and a brain injury, he will have a long recovery," she added.
"Ben and Brogan were also injured, Ben seriously."
"I was handed Aric's wedding ring in a plastic bag at the hospital, five hours after Sam placed it on his finger and they read each other their vows. Aric has lost the love of his life," Annette continued.
"This fundraiser will help pay for Sam's burial and medical costs for Aric and his family."
"The couple made their home in both the groom's home state of Utah and the state of South Carolina. The bride is from North Carolina."
"The groom graduated from Bonneville High School in South Ogden, Utah and played college football for Snow College and Utah Tech."
As of now, the GoFundMe campaign has amassed a total of USD $622,496 (AUD $935,312).
