Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew, tragically lost their lives on Thursday after being struck by a vehicle while cycling on County Route 551 in Oldmans Township, New Jersey.
The driver involved, 43-year-old Sean Higgins, is suspected of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Following the incident, Higgins was arrested and charged with two counts of second-degree vehicular manslaughter.
Despite the gravity of the situation and the devastating loss of life, Higgins appeared more concerned about his own circumstances than the pain he has caused. During his first court appearance on Friday afternoon in Salem County, he expressed frustration over having to remain in jail until his next hearing on September 5.
Judge Michael J. Silvanio ordered Higgins to stay in custody until the scheduled court date, a decision that visibly irritated the defendant. “So… I’m here until Thursday?” Higgins asked with apparent indifference, according to the New York Post, letting out a sigh of annoyance.
Higgins displayed little to no emotion when the judge recounted the impact of his actions, which resulted in the deaths of two brothers who had traveled to New Jersey to serve as groomsmen at their sister’s wedding, planned for the following day.
In a further attempt to deflect responsibility, Higgins reportedly blamed other drivers and slow-moving traffic for the crash, stating that the “five or six beers” he had consumed only heightened his impatience and frustration.
The loss has left two families in mourning. Matthew Gaudreau is survived by his wife, Madeline, who is expecting their first child. Johnny Gaudreau leaves behind his wife, Meredith, and their two young children, Noa and Johnny. The Gaudreau family and the broader hockey community are grappling with this tragic and senseless loss.
