Lawyers for Sean Higgins said they intend to file a motion to dismiss some of the charges against him during a post-indictment arraignment on Tuesday.
Higgins pleaded not guilty to six charges and rejected a plea deal from prosecutors at the proceeding, allowing the case to move forward to trial.
Why It Matters
Higgins was indicted last month on charges related to the killings of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and brother Matthew Gaudreau, including reckless vehicular homicide and aggravated manslaughter. The brothers were fatally struck by a vehicle while riding bicycles in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, in August of last year.
Johnny was a forward on the Columbus Blue Jackets. His NHL career began in 2011 when he was drafted by the Calgary Flames. He was often called "Johnny Hockey" by fans.
What To Know
Higgins' attorneys said they intend to file several motions, including one to dismiss some of the charges in the indictment and another to exclude some evidence in the case.
Prosecutors offered to drop some of the charges in exchange for guilty pleas, but Higgins rejected the deal. If Higgins agreed to plead guilty to aggravated manslaughter and leaving the scene of a fatal accident, he would have been sentenced to 35 years in prison.
Higgins did not say anything during the arraignment.
Johnny and Matthew's parents and sisters attended the proceedings. The brothers were killed one day before their sister Katie Gaudreau's wedding.
At a hearing in September of last year, prosecutors alleged that Higgins' blood alcohol level was above the legal limit when the fatal incident occurred. Authorities said Higgins was driving a black Jeep Grand Cherokee and passed a sedan on the left. He then attempted to pass an SUV, which had moved to the left to avoid the brothers cycling on the shoulder of the road.
The SUV driver told investigators that Higgins accelerated past the SUV and struck the brothers.
What People Are Saying
Madeline Gaudreau, Matthew's wife, at the brothers' funeral: "I urge everyone to never drink and drive, call a ride. Please do not put another family through this torture. The loss of Matty and John will leave a hole in the family, with his close friends, the community, for eternity."
What Happens Next
Higgins' next court appearance is scheduled for February 4. He remains in custody at Salem County Correctional Facility.
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