Sean Higgins, the individual charged with the deaths of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, has entered a not guilty plea. The plea comes after Higgins rejected a prosecution offer of a 35-year prison sentence. The brothers were tragically killed while cycling near their family home just a day before their sister's wedding in August 2024 when Higgins' vehicle struck them.
Higgins faces serious charges, including aggravated manslaughter, vehicular homicide, tampering with evidence, and fleeing the scene of the accident. Authorities report that Higgins' blood alcohol content was above the legal limit in New Jersey, and he did not pass a field sobriety test. Police accounts indicate aggressive driving by Higgins, including excessive speed and unsafe passing maneuvers, prior to the collision.
A memorial at Nationwide Arena honoring Johnny Gaudreau (Jason Mowry/Getty Images)
Higgins' legal team contends that the tragic incident resulted from a confluence of highly unusual and unfortunate factors, not intentional wrongdoing. The next court date has not yet been set, but a trial is expected.
The Gaudreau family participates in a ceremonial puck drop during a tribute to Johnny. (Sergei Belski-Imagn Images)
Johnny Gaudreau enjoyed an 11-season NHL career, accumulating 743 points. He played for the Calgary Flames for nine seasons and the Columbus Blue Jackets for two, with his third season in Columbus tragically cut short. Both the Blue Jackets and Flames have held tributes to honor Gaudreau, involving his family in the ceremonies.
A banner raised in memory of Johnny Gaudreau. (Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images)
Matthew Gaudreau was a standout hockey player at Boston College and continued playing professionally after graduation, including time with the New York Islanders' AHL affiliate.
