On Friday night, James Warren chose to watch the UNC-Murray State game at a Knightdale bar because his wife works at a nearby motel. Because he had been drinking, he walked to meet his wife and passed out in a ditch.
Police say Samuel Morris was also drinking at the same bar that night. Authorities said he chose to drive and rammed into the SUV of a deputy who stopped to help Warren.
"It's just very ironic that he did that and still ended up dying because of a drunk driver who chose to do the opposite, chose to do the wrong thing," Susan said.
The SUV then rolled over Warren. Deputy Walter Martin rolled off the hood and under his Suburban.
"I was so lucky, and I feel so bad for that man that got killed," Martin said.
Susan Warren said she is grateful two lives were not taken that night.
"I don't want him to feel guilty that my husband died and he lived. It's not his fault," Susan said. "I thank him for being willing to stop and check on my husband."
Warren lived in Raleigh with his wife and leaves behind three sons. He grew up in Rockingham, N.C., and that is where he will be buried Wednesday.
Susan Warren said that since James was such a huge Carolina fan, he will be buried in a UNC cap and jersey.
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