Sean M. Higgins, the driver accused of fatally striking NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew while they were cycling in rural New Jersey, has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including aggravated manslaughter and vehicular homicide. The 44-year-old combat veteran appeared in Salem County Court on Tuesday, rejecting a prosecution plea deal that included a 35-year prison sentence.
The tragic incident occurred on August 29, near the Gaudreau brothers’ childhood home, just one day before their sister’s wedding. Johnny Gaudreau, 31, affectionately known as “Johnny Hockey,” had played 10 full NHL seasons, including eight with the Calgary Flames, and was preparing for his third season with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Matthew Gaudreau, 29, leaves behind a widow who recently welcomed their first child.
Prosecutors allege Higgins was impaired at the time of the crash, with a blood-alcohol level of .087, just above New Jersey’s legal limit of .08. Witnesses reported Higgins had been driving aggressively and erratically after consuming five to six beers and engaging in a tense phone call with his mother. A driver who observed his behavior said Higgins accelerated and veered right, striking the Gaudreau brothers while other vehicles slowed to pass the cyclists.
Defense attorneys argue that the tragedy stemmed from a “combination of uniquely unfortunate circumstances” rather than intentional malfeasance. They describe Higgins as a dedicated father and employee at an addiction treatment company, who has faith in the legal process.
The charges against Higgins include aggravated manslaughter, vehicular homicide, evidence tampering, and leaving the scene of an accident. The case now moves toward trial as the Gaudreau family and hockey community mourn the devastating loss of two beloved brothers.
Source: Swifteradio.com