Driver charged with killing Johnny Gaudreau pleads not guilty to homicide
- Sean M. Higgins has been charged with killing NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew while they were cycling.
- Witnesses reported that Higgins was driving aggressively and had been drinking on the day of the crash.
- Higgins' not-guilty plea has led to the case advancing towards a trial, emphasizing the legal and social implications of reckless driving.
In August 2023, in New Jersey, Johnny Gaudreau, a professional hockey player, and his brother Matthew were tragically killed while cycling. The incident occurred just prior to their sister's wedding, compounding the tragedy for their family. The driver involved, Sean M. Higgins, faces serious charges including two counts of aggravated manslaughter and two counts of reckless vehicular homicide. Prosecutors state that Higgins was driving under the influence, with a blood alcohol level measured at .087 percent, above the legal limit. Witness accounts indicated that he had been driving aggressively and reportedly had consumed around five or six beers prior to the incident, driving erratically in an attempt to overtake the Gaudreaus on a rural road. After being indicted by a grand jury in December, Higgins rejected a plea agreement from prosecutors for a 35-year prison sentence, maintaining his not-guilty plea. His defense team argues that the situation resulted from a combination of unfortunate circumstances rather than any criminal intent or negligence. As the case develops, the legal proceedings are set to continue, with Higgins' trial anticipated in the coming months. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of impaired and reckless driving, particularly concerning road safety for cyclists, and raises discussions on accountability and justice for victims of vehicular homicide, setting the stage for a controversial trial.