The man accused of killing former NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew with his vehicle while they were riding a bicycle pleaded not guilty Tuesday and rejected prosecutors’ offer of 35 years in prison.
Just one day before their sister’s wedding, the Gaudreau brothers were riding bicycles near their childhood home when they were hit and killed by a vehicle on August 29, 2024.
Sean Higgins, 44, was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated manslaughter, two counts of vehicular manslaughter, tampering with evidence and leaving the scene of an accident.
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A monument honoring Johnny Gaudreau is displayed at Nationwide Arena on October 15, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio. (Jason Mowry/Getty Images)
Police noted that Higgins had a blood alcohol level of .087, above New Jersey’s legal driving limit, and failed a field sobriety test. Police also said Higgins was driving aggressively, including speeding to avoid several vehicles, when he crashed into the Gaudreaus.
Higgins’ lawyers said in a statement in court in New Jersey that they hope to show that the incident did not occur due to “embezzlement” but rather “a combination of exceptionally unfortunate circumstances that are unlikely to occur again.”
LLAMAS HONOR JOHNNY GAUDREAU WITH EMOTIONAL TRIBUTE MONTHS AFTER TRAGIC DEATH OF NHL STAR AND BROTHER
It has not yet been determined when Higgins will next appear in court, although a trial is looming.
The Blue Jackets held a tribute to Gaudreau at their first home game this season, raising a banner with members of the Gaudreau family who attended the game and participated in a puck ceremony. (Sergei Belski-Imagn Images)
Johnny spent 11 seasons in the NHL, tallying 743 points (243 goals, 500 assists) in nine seasons with the Calgary Flames and two with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Johnny was ready to begin his third season in Columbus.
The Blue Jackets held a tribute to Gaudreau at their first home game this season, raising a banner with members of the Gaudreau family who attended the game and participated in a puck ceremony.
The Flames did the same, but waited until the Blue Jackets were in town for their game in December for an emotional pregame ceremony that also included members of the Gaudreau family.
A banner is raised in memory of Johnny Gaudreau. (Images by Russell LaBounty-Imagn)
Matthew excelled at Boston College during his four years in the program. He played for several teams after his college days ended, including the New York Islanders’ AHL team, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers.
