The alleged drunk driver responsible for the deaths of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew appeared in court on Friday. Sean Higgins, 43, was ordered to remain in custody until his next detention hearing on September 5.
According to the New York Post, the decision came during Higgins' first court appearance in Salem County, New Jersey, where he faces two counts of second-degree vehicle manslaughter.
The tragic incident occurred on Thursday night when Higgins allegedly struck the Gaudreau brothers with his Jeep Grand Cherokee while they were cycling in their hometown of Oldmans Township. Both Johnny, 31, and Matthew, 29, were pronounced dead at the scene. The collision happened just a day before their sister's wedding, which was subsequently canceled due to the devastating loss.
Higgins appeared to be taken aback during the virtual court appearance by the extended holding period. When Judge Michael J. Silvanio explained that the usual 72-hour holding period was extended due to the upcoming holiday weekend, Higgins visibly reacted with a heavy sigh. He was seen wearing a dark green jacket with velcro shoulders and a bandage on his wrist.
Higgins, who plans to hire a private attorney, expressed concern about his limited ability to communicate from jail. He asked the judge about how to initiate the process of securing legal representation, given his current circumstances. The judge advised him to seek assistance from jail staff or to ask family and friends for help.
Throughout the proceedings, Higgins remained largely expressionless as the judge recounted the details of the fatal incident. No family members were present in the courtroom to support him, and he was represented by a public defender, Cody Dooley, for this initial appearance.
The collision that claimed the lives of the Gaudreau brothers occurred around 8 p.m. on County Route 551 in Oldmans Township. According to the New Jersey State Police, Higgins' vehicle struck the cyclists from behind as they were riding their bicycles. The responding trooper noted the scent of alcohol on Higgins' breath at the scene.
During police questioning, Higgins admitted to consuming "five to six beers" before the incident. He failed a field sobriety test administered by the troopers. The criminal complaint obtained by the New York Post revealed that Higgins had attempted to pass slower-moving vehicles by entering the southbound lanes. As he tried to reenter the northbound lanes, he struck the Gaudreau brothers from behind.
Higgins told police that he believed an SUV in front of him was preventing him from passing, and he acknowledged that his alcohol consumption had exacerbated his frustration and impatience. This admission forms a crucial part of the case against him.
The deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau have sent shockwaves through their family and the hockey community. Johnny Gaudreau, a star player for the Columbus Blue Jackets, was known for his skill on the ice and had previously been a finalist for the Calder Trophy. He leaves behind his wife, Meredith, and two young children.
The Gaudreau family released a statement expressing their profound grief and requesting privacy during this difficult time. Jim Gaudreau, a relative, shared the family's sentiments:
Last night we lost two husbands, two fathers, two sons, and brothers-in-law, two nephews, two cousins, two family members, two teammates, two friends but truly two amazing humans.
The impact of this tragedy extended beyond the immediate family, affecting the planned wedding of the Gaudreau sister, Katie. The ceremony, scheduled for Friday afternoon at St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Gloucester City, was canceled in light of the devastating events.
In conclusion, the tragic deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau have deeply affected their family, the hockey community, and their hometown. Sean Higgins, the alleged drunk driver, faces serious charges and will remain in custody until his next court appearance. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potentially devastating consequences of drunk driving. As the legal process unfolds, the Gaudreau family and community continue to mourn the loss of two beloved individuals taken far too soon.
