Plea moves Bridger Hunt case closer to resolution

PROVO — Bridger Hunt's mom wanted justice and mercy for the man whose homemade fireworks exploded and nearly killed her son July 24.

She got it Tuesday afternoon when Craig Miller pleaded guilty to reduced charges in 4th District Court.

But mom Mindy Carter Shaw knows that the life-time expenses of taking care of her injured son will require more than just a guilty plea, especially now that she's seen the first bill for the hospital stay: $475,000.

Shaw and her attorneys anticipate the full bill, including surgery costs, medical personnel bills and special procedures, will run well over $1 million.

"They're never going to be completely compensated enough for what happened," said Shaw's

attorney, Alan Stewart. "We're looking to get what we can, not just for the past, but future (expenses)."

Miller, his attorney and his insurance company have been cooperative, but the full amount Miller owes won't be determined until there is a restitution hearing, to be set after Miller is sentenced

Dec. 2.

Miller left the courtroom an emotional but slightly relieved man.

"Suspense is the worst thing there is," he said, tearing up. "I've lost everything, my family, everything."

It's been nearly two months since Miller was charged for the explosion that sent Bridger to the hospital, clinging to life. Miller never shirked responsibility but immediately told the Deseret News he wanted to do all in his power to make things right with Bridger, now 13.

And Bridger's family has never shown anger or bitterness toward Miller. At previous hearings, Shaw and Miller embraced, and on Tuesday they spoke, smiled at each other and even hugged at parting.

"The family has been more than kind," a tearful Miller said. "I don't feel I deserve it, but I'm grateful."

Miller pleaded guilty to possession of explosive or incendiary parts, a third-degree felony, and reckless endangerment, a class A misdemeanor. Both were reduced one level of seriousness in a plea deal that took weeks of negotiation, said Miller's attorney, Mark Ethington.

"We're really glad to have the resolution down on the record," Ethington said. He said they thought some of the original charges were excessive, but wanted to get closure for Miller, Bridger and his family.