Driver charged with killing NHL's Johnny Gaudreau and his brother had .087 blood-alcohol level
Sean M. Higgins, a 43-year-old driver, has been charged with causing the deaths of NHL hockey player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew when they were biking on a rural road in South Jersey. At the time of the incident on August 29, Higgins registered a blood-alcohol level of . 087, which is above the legal limit of . 08 in New Jersey.
The brothers were tragically killed just a day before they were scheduled to be groomsmen at their sister Katie's wedding. Prosecutors highlighted Higgins' troubling history of road rage and aggressive driving during a virtual court hearing, prompting the judge to order his detention until trial. In a phone call from jail, Higgins' wife expressed her frustrations with his driving behavior, indicating it was a known issue. Meanwhile, the defense characterized Higgins as a loving father who made a poor decision that night. He faces serious charges, including two counts of death by auto, as well as reckless driving and alcohol-related offenses.
The case has drawn significant attention due to its tragic nature and the high-profile status of the victims.