In a significant legal development, a New Jersey judge has dismissed the defense’s argument that NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were responsible for their own deaths due to alleged impairment while cycling. This decision clears the path for the trial of Sean M. Higgins, the driver accused of fatally striking the brothers in a tragic incident that has captured national attention
🛣️ The Incident
On August 29, 2024, Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew, 29, were cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, near their childhood home. The brothers were preparing to serve as groomsmen at their sister Katie’s wedding the following day. While riding in single file along County Route 551, they were struck by a Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Sean Higgins, 44, resulting in their immediate deaths
⚖️ Defense’s Argument and Judicial Response
Higgins’ defense team contended that the Gaudreau brothers had elevated blood alcohol levels—0.129% for Johnny and 0.134% for Matthew—exceeding Higgins’ own level of 0.087%. They argued that this impairment, coupled with the absence of lights on their bicycles, contributed to the fatal outcome .​
However, Superior Court Judge Michael Silvanio rejected this line of defense, stating that contributory negligence by the victims is not applicable under New Jersey criminal law. He emphasized that the brothers’ conduct was irrelevant to the charges against Higgins, which include vehicular homicide and aggravated manslaughter
🧑‍⚖️ Prosecution’s Case
Prosecutors allege that Higgins was driving under the influence and exhibited reckless behavior at the time of the crash. Witnesses reported that he was tailgating a vehicle before illegally passing it on the right, veering into the shoulder where the Gaudreau brothers were cycling . Higgins admitted to consuming alcohol earlier that day and was found to have a blood alcohol level slightly above the legal limit
🏛️ Legal Proceedings and Potential Sentencing
Higgins has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including two counts of aggravated manslaughter and vehicular homicide. He declined a plea deal that would have resulted in a 35-year prison sentence. If convicted on all counts, he faces up to 70 years in prison . The next court hearing is scheduled for June 10, 2025
🕯️ Community Impact
The deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau have deeply affected both the local community and the broader hockey world. Johnny, affectionately known as “Johnny Hockey,” was a seven-time NHL All-Star and a prominent player for the Columbus Blue Jackets. Matthew, a former collegiate and minor league player, was also well-regarded in hockey circles. Both brothers were married, and their wives have since given birth to sons, adding a poignant dimension to the tragedy
đź“… Concluion
Judge Silvanio’s ruling underscores the legal principle that victim behavior does not absolve defendants of criminal responsibility in such cases. As the trial approaches, the focus will remain on the actions of Sean Higgins and the circumstances leading to the untimely deaths of the Gaudreau brothers.​
