Army vet charged in fatal drunken crash with NHL star in New Jersey

Sean Higgins, a 43-year-old Army veteran and field artillery officer with the New Jersey Army National Guard, has been charged in a fatal drunk driving incident that resulted in the deaths of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew. The tragic event occurred around 8:30 PM in Salem County, New Jersey, where both men were visiting for a family wedding. They were pronounced dead at the scene, leaving behind a grieving family and community. Higgins, who was not on duty at the time, is suspected of being intoxicated while driving. He remains in custody at the Salem County Correctional Facility. According to the criminal complaint, Higgins admitted that his alcohol consumption contributed to his reckless driving behavior, which he claimed was exacerbated by impatience when he thought another driver was trying to block him. The New Jersey Army National Guard expressed deep sorrow over the incident, with Colonel Yvonne L. Mays offering condolences to the Gaudreau family. Higgins was also employed at a rehabilitation facility, which placed him on leave following the crash. The facility extended sympathies to the victims' family during this difficult time. The Columbus Blue Jackets, the NHL team for which Gaudreau played, expressed their shock and devastation over the loss. Gaudreau's widow shared heartfelt sentiments on social media, reflecting on their life together and the profound impact of his untimely death. This incident has left a significant mark on both the sports community and the local area.