Sean Higgins, the man accused of causing the deaths of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, faced his first appearance in a New Jersey courtroom. During the virtual hearing, Higgins appeared visibly upset upon learning that he would be spending the upcoming long holiday weekend in jail. The 43-year-old was charged with two counts of death by auto after allegedly crashing his Jeep Grand Cherokee into the back of the Gaudreau brothers while they were riding their bikes in Oldmans Township.
Despite wearing an anti-suicide smock, Higgins showed little emotion during the hearing. However, when informed that he would be held in custody until the following Thursday due to a motion for pre-trial detention filed by prosecutors, Higgins appeared dejected. He leaned back in his chair, closed his eyes, and let out a heavy breath, indicating his disappointment at the decision. The judge explained to Higgins that he was required to remain incarcerated for a minimum of 72 hours before his next hearing, which would fall on Thursday due to the holiday weekend.
During the hearing, Higgins expressed his intention to hire a private attorney to represent him in the case. He received instructions on the process of securing legal representation while confined to his cell. After stating that he had no further questions, Higgins was excused from the proceedings. The tragic accident occurred as Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were in town to celebrate their sister’s wedding, which was ultimately canceled following the devastating loss of the brothers. Johnny was 31 years old, and Matthew was just 29.
According to reports, Higgins admitted to consuming “5-6 beers” before the fatal accident. This admission may have legal implications as the case progresses through the court system. The consequences of Higgins’ actions have had a profound impact on the Gaudreau family, leading to the cancellation of a joyous celebration and leaving a lasting void in the lives of those who knew and loved Johnny and Matthew.
The tragic case of Sean Higgins and the Gaudreau brothers serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of impaired driving. As the legal process unfolds and justice is sought for the victims, the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau will be remembered and mourned by all those who knew them. May their memories be a beacon of light in the darkness of this senseless tragedy, serving as a call to action to prevent similar events from occurring in the future.