The man accused of killing NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew with his vehicle while they were riding their bikes pleaded not guilty Tuesday, refusing the prosecution’s offer of 35 years in prison.
Just a day before their sister’s wedding, the Gaudreau brothers were cycling near their childhood home when they were struck 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 homicide, tampering with evidence and leaving the scene of an accident.
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A memorial honoring Johnny Gaudreau is on display at Nationwide Arena, 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 that he had failed a field sobriety test. Police also said Higgins was driving aggressively, including speeding to go around several vehicles, when he struck the Gaudreaus.
Higgins’ lawyers said in a statement to the New Jersey court that they hope to prove that the incident did not occur due to “malfeasance” but rather a “combination of particularly unfortunate circumstances and unlikely to recur.”
FLAMES 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 upcoming.
The Blue Jackets celebrated Gaudreau at their home opener this season, raising a banner with members of the Gaudreau family attending the game and participating in a puck drop ceremony. (Sergei Belski-Imagn Images)
Johnny spent 11 seasons in the NHL, recording 743 points (243 goals, 500 assists) in nine seasons with the Calgary Flames and two with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Johnny was to begin his third season in Columbus.
The Blue Jackets celebrated Gaudreau at their home opener this season, raising a banner with members of the Gaudreau family attending the game and participating in a puck drop ceremony.
The Flames followed suit, but waited until the Blue Jackets were in town for their December game for an emotional pregame ceremony that also included members of the Gaudreau family.
A banner is raised in memory of Johnny Gaudreau. (Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images)
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Matthew distinguished himself at Boston College during his four years with the program. He played for several teams after college, including the New York Islanders’ AHL team, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers.
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