Alleged drunk driver who killed NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew sighs as he learns judge’s decision
Sean Higgins appeared in court on Friday and has been charged with two counts of death by auto
Two days ago, NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother were tragically killed while out cycling.
Columbus Blue Jackets player, Johnny, and Matthew Gaudreau were knocked down by Sean M. Higgins, who was allegedly drunk at the time he crashed into them on a New Jersey highway, on Thursday night.
The brothers were cycling north on County Road 551, in Salem County, at around 8pm when Higgins attempted to overtake two cars, the second being an SUV.
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While overtaking on the southbound lane, the second car veered into the middle of the two lanes allowing space for Johnny and Matthew to pass.
At which point Higgins, who had already successfully passed the first, attempted to drive around the right hand side of the SUV in his Jeep - smashing into the brothers, who were due to be groomsmen at their sister's wedding the following day.
Despite his reckless driving leading to the deaths of 29-year-old father-to-be Matthew, and 31-year-old dad-of-two Johnny, 43-year-old Higgins was visibly frustrated to hear from a judge that he had to remain in jail until next week.
According to FOX 29, police documents state that Higgins told police he had drank 'five to six' beers prior to getting behind the wheel, and he also failed a field sobriety test.
Higgins, who has been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, attended Salem County Court via a video link on Friday.
Judge Michael J. Silvanio informed him that Higgins will be remaining in custody for six more days, to which the Daily Mail reported that he responded in disbelief: "So... I'm here until Thursday."
The holding period of three days has been extended due to the holiday weekend the judge explained, leading to Higgins leaning back in his chair and letting out a heavy sigh, according to the publication.
NHL's Columbus Blue Jackets confirmed the tragic news in a statement shared to Twitter.
The statement reads: "The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy. Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew.
"Johnny played the game with great joy which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice. He brought a genuine love for hockey with him everywhere he played from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets. He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could.
"The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him.
"Johnny embraced our community when he arrived two years ago, and Columbus welcomed him with open arms. We will miss him terribly and do everything that we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy."
Joe Yates