A New Jersey man accused of killing NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew Gaudreau, in a tragic cycling accident pleaded not guilty to homicide charges on Tuesday.
The Context
The fatal crash occurred on August 29 near the Gaudreaus' childhood home in South Jersey just one day before their sister's wedding. Prosecutors allege the suspect, Sean M. Higgins, a married father of two and a combat veteran, was driving under the influence after consuming five to six beers. Witnesses described him as exhibiting road rage before his vehicle struck the brothers.
Johnny Gaudreau, 31, affectionately known as "Johnny Hockey," had a storied NHL career, including eight seasons with the Calgary Flames and two with the Columbus Blue Jackets. His brother, Matthew Gaudreau, 29, also played hockey at Boston College.
The case has drawn significant attention with an outpouring of grief from fans and loved ones of the two brothers.
What To Know
Higgins, 44, appeared briefly in court in Salem County, New Jersey, and entered a formal not guilty plea to the recent indictment in the deaths of the Gaudreau brothers.
Higgins, who previously worked for an addiction treatment company, faces multiple charges, including aggravated manslaughter, vehicular homicide, evidence tampering and leaving the scene of an accident.
His defense attorneys argue the incident was the result of "uniquely unfortunate circumstances" rather than criminal intent.
The formal plea comes after witness statements reveal Higgins had been driving aggressively behind another vehicle. As other drivers slowed down and veered left to avoid the cyclists, Higgins allegedly sped up and swerved to the right, fatally hitting the two men.
Authorities reported that Higgins' blood-alcohol level measured .087—above New Jersey's legal limit of .08—and he failed a field sobriety test.
What People Are Saying
Higgins defense lawyer Matthew Portella and his legal team said in a statement they hope to prove that the deaths stemmed not from any "malfeasance" but from "a combination of uniquely unfortunate circumstances unlikely to ever occur again." Adding that Higgins is a good person who "made a horrible decision that night."
Meredith Gaudreau said in September her husband Johnny "didn't have a bad bone in his body. He never spoke badly about anyone. Most humble person I've ever met, zero ego, quiet, sweet and shy. He was everything, more than I only dreamt about finding in a husband, and then he made all my dreams come true."
Madeline Gaudreau, the wife of Matthew Gaudreau said in September: "It brings tears to my eyes to see how much everyone loved and cherished my husband and brother-in-law, as much as their families do. This last week has felt like I've been trapped in a nightmare I can't wake up from. I feel numb, angry, sad, blessed all at once. Some days, the thought of this new reality is debilitating, but mostly I just miss Matt."
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement in August: "The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. While Johnny's infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname 'Johnny Hockey,' he was more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a doting father and beloved husband, son, brother and teammate who endeared himself to every person fortunate enough to have crossed his path."
What Happens Next
While Higgins remains in custody, the case will now move toward trial.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
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