A man accused of killing NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother has rejected a 35-year plea deal, setting the stage for what could be an emotional trial in New Jersey.
Sean Higgins, 44, pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from the August 29 crash that claimed the lives of the Gaudreau brothers while they were bike riding.
The case has sent shockwaves through the hockey community, where Johnny Gaudreau was known as one of the sport’s most dynamic players.
Prosecutors paint a damning picture of the events that day. They say Higgins had been drinking throughout the day and had a history of road rage incidents. His blood-alcohol level tested at .087, above the legal limit.
The crash happened in a split second. Another driver had spotted the Gaudreau brothers cycling on the road’s shoulder and moved over to give them space. That’s when Higgins allegedly tried to pass on the right, striking both men.
His defense team calls it “a combination of uniquely unfortunate circumstances unlikely to ever occur again.”
Johnny Gaudreau’s NHL career was nothing short of remarkable. After winning college hockey’s highest honor – the Hobey Baker Award – at Boston College, he went on to become one of the league’s most exciting players. Over 11 seasons with the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets, he racked up 243 goals and 500 assists.
His brother Matthew also played at Boston College before pursuing a professional career in hockey’s minor leagues.
The case now moves toward trial, where prosecutors will likely focus on Higgins’ alleged drinking and driving history. If convicted, he could face even more time than the rejected plea deal offered.
