Sean Higgins charged in Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau’s deaths had blood-alcohol level exceeding limit

WOODSTOWN, NEW JERSEY: Sean M Higgins, 43, is facing charges for his involvement in a fatal crash that resulted in the deaths of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew.

The brothers were cycling near their childhood home in South Jersey on the evening of August 29 when they were struck and killed by Higgins, who was later found to have a blood-alcohol level of .087, exceeding New Jersey's legal limit of .08, as per AP News.

This incident occurred just one day before they were to serve as groomsmen at their sister Katie’s wedding.

Prosecutors highlight Sean M Higgins’ alleged history of road rage and aggressive driving

Sean M Higgins, a resident of Woodstown, New Jersey, has been charged with two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, possession of an open container, and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle.

During a virtual court hearing, prosecutors highlighted Higgins’ alleged history of road rage and aggressive driving, leading the judge to hold him for trial.

The incident was compounded by an incriminating phone call made by Higgins to his wife following his arrest.

First Assistant Prosecutor Jonathan Flynn of Salem County cited his wife's words during this call, stating, "You were probably driving like a nut like I always tell you you do. And you don’t listen to me, instead you just yell at me."

During the hearing, Higgins was described as a married father of two, with his defense attorney Matthew Portella arguing that Higgins is generally a law-abiding citizen who made a "horrible decision" that night.

Portella portrayed Higgins as "an empathetic individual, and he’s a loving father of two daughters", suggesting the incident was an aberration in his behavior.

Sean M Higgins admitted to consuming five or six beers on day of crash

Sean M Higgins admitted to consuming five or six beers on the day of the crash and acknowledged drinking while driving, according to the criminal complaint.

He also failed a field sobriety test. Prosecutors stated that Higgins began drinking at home after a distressing conversation with his mother and following the completion of a work call around 3 pm.

Flynn revealed that Higgins spent the next two hours on a phone call with a friend while driving around in his Jeep with an open container.

Witnesses recounted the moments leading up to the crash.

Higgins had been driving aggressively behind a sedan, tailgating as it traveled slightly over the 50 mph speed limit.

When the sedan and another vehicle slowed down and moved left to navigate around the Gaudreau brothers on their bicycles, Higgins accelerated and veered to the right, colliding with the cyclists.

In court, Higgins claimed he "didn’t even see them", an assertion that was met with skepticism by Superior Court Judge Michael J Silvanio, who noted that Higgins’ "impatience" had caused the tragic deaths.

Higgins' background includes a master’s degree, a job in finance at an addiction treatment company, and military service in Iraq.

Despite this, his wife reported that he had been drinking regularly since transitioning to working from home.

If convicted, Higgins could face up to 20 years in prison, a factor that the judge cited as making him a flight risk.

Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau's deaths left profound impact on their family

Johnny Gaudreau, affectionately known as "Johnny Hockey", was a beloved figure in the NHL.

He played 10 full seasons in the league and was set to begin his third season with the Columbus Blue Jackets after signing a seven-year, $68 million deal in 2022. His career began with the Calgary Flames, where he became one of the sport's most popular and skilled players.

The deaths of Johnny and Matthew have left a profound impact on their family and the broader community. Widows Meredith and Madeline Gaudreau spoke about their husbands’ close bond, with the two brothers being described as inseparable throughout their lives.

Both women are currently expecting, adding another layer of heartbreak to the tragic situation. They delivered emotional eulogies during a recent double funeral, a ceremony that drew tears and sorrow from all who attended.

Madeline made a heartfelt plea during her eulogy, urging others to avoid the mistake that led to her husband’s death.

"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," she implored.