Woodstock, NJ – In a tragic turn of events, Sean Higgins, a 43-year-old resident of Woodstock, New Jersey, has been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto following a fatal accident that claimed the lives of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew. The incident occurred on Thursday night when Higgins, driving a Jeep Cherokee, collided with the brothers who were cycling along County Route 551 in Salem County, New Jersey.
The Gaudreau brothers were in town for a family event, set to attend their sister Katie’s wedding the following day. While out for an evening bike ride, they were struck by Higgins’ vehicle, a collision so severe that both were pronounced dead at the scene. Witnesses reported that Higgins, instead of stopping to offer assistance, fled the scene of the accident. His attempt to evade capture was short-lived, as law enforcement officers apprehended him near the state border with Delaware.
Sean Higgins appeared in court on Friday, where he was formally charged with two counts of death by auto, a charge equivalent to vehicular manslaughter in New Jersey. During his court appearance, Higgins admitted to consuming five or six beers prior to driving, expressing regret and acknowledging that his impaired state likely contributed to his impatience and reckless driving.
The judge ordered that Higgins be remanded into custody, where he will remain until his next court appearance, scheduled for September 5th. If convicted, Higgins faces significant prison time, and the case has already garnered widespread media attention due to the prominence of one of the victims.
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Sean Higgins is a father of two young daughters and a U.S. Army veteran with a distinguished service record. He served in the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, which saw deployment to Kosovo. During his tour in Kosovo, Higgins was promoted to Major, an achievement that occurred during a state leadership visit to the region in 2019. His role as the Regional Command-East Civil-Military Cooperation Chief highlighted his leadership abilities and dedication to service.
Higgins is based in Woodstown, New Jersey, where he resides with his wife and children. His life appeared to be one marked by service and family commitment, making this incident all the more shocking to those who know him.
Court records reveal that this is not Higgins’ first encounter with the law. In the early 2000s, Higgins had two prior legal incidents in North Carolina. In 2005, he was charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), but the case was dismissed due to the absence of the arresting officer in court. Additionally, Higgins received a speeding ticket in 2001, which was dismissed because of his previously clean driving record.
The deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau have sent shockwaves through both the sports community and their hometown. Johnny Gaudreau, a star in the National Hockey League (NHL), was known for his skill on the ice and his dedication to his family. His brother Matthew was also deeply loved and respected by those who knew him. The Gaudreau family, who were preparing for a joyous occasion, are now left to mourn the loss of two beloved sons and brothers.
The incident has sparked renewed discussions about the dangers of drunk driving and the tragic consequences that can result from one person’s decision to get behind the wheel while impaired. As the case progresses through the legal system, it serves as a grim reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the devastating impact of alcohol-related accidents.
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The community of Woodstown, NJ, and the broader sports world are now united in grief, as they await justice for Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. The coming weeks will undoubtedly bring further developments in the case, as the legal system seeks to hold Sean Higgins accountable for the lives lost on that fateful night.