If you tune in to the NHL regularly, you may have seen "Johnny Hockey” carving up the ice over the past decade. Unfortunately, the hockey world was left mourning following a tragic incident that claimed the lives of Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. The brothers were struck and killed by an alleged drunk driver while cycling. Now, state police are bringing charges against the driver.
Meet Johnny Hockey
Johnny Gaudreau, affectionately known as "Johnny Hockey," was a celebrated figure in the NHL. Distinguishable for his smaller stature compared to many other professional hockey players, Gaudreau nevertheless became a dynamic offensive threat in the league. Gaudreau played as a left winger and was known for his ability to handle the puck with finesse, his quick skating, and his playmaking abilities. His style of play often involved using his agility and vision to create scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates.
Drafted by the Calgary Flames in the fourth round of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, he played nine seasons with the Flames, earning numerous accolades including a Hobey Baker Award, seven NHL All-Star Game selections, and a Lady Byng Trophy. In 2022, he signed a seven-year, $68 million contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets. His brother Matthew also had a long career in hockey, having played in the AHL and ECHL and then returning to South New Jersey to coach hockey at the Gaudreau’s alma mater high school.
Tragedy Strikes
But late last month, a tragic incident rocked the hockey world and the South Jersey community. On August 29, both Gaudreau brothers were struck and killed by an alleged drunk driver while cycling near their childhood home in Carneys Point. The brothers, aged 31 and 29 respectively, were set to serve as groomsmen at their sister Katie’s wedding the following day. Both brothers were remembered as inseparable and devoted family men, with their widows, Meredith and Madeline, expecting children.
The driver was Sean M. Higgins, a 43-year-old resident of Woodstown, New Jersey. Higgins worked in finance for an addiction treatment company while serving part-time as a traditional drill status guardsman with the New Jersey Army National Guard.
Under the Influence?
On the fatal day, Higgins, driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee, attempted to pass a slower-moving sedan and SUV on Pennsville Auburn Road. When the two vehicles slowed down and moved left to avoid the cyclists, Higgins sped up and veered right, striking the Gaudreau brothers. Higgins later told police he did not see the cyclists.
Higgins has since been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide, reckless driving, possession of an open container, and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle. Prosecutors revealed that Higgins had a blood-alcohol level of 0.087%, in excess of the New Jersey legal limit of 0.08%. They claim that Higgins admitted to consuming five or six beers and drinking while driving. Witnesses reported that Higgins had been driving aggressively and tailgating other vehicles before the fatal crash.
During court proceedings, the state prosecutor highlighted Higgins' history of road rage and aggressive driving. He also noted that Higgins had been drinking regularly since he began working from home, a habit that had allegedly adversely affected his behavior. Higgins’ wife, in a phone call from jail, chastised him for his reckless driving habits, which she said he had ignored despite her warnings.
A Sad Time for All
Higgins’ defense attorney described him as a decorated Army combat veteran, a loving father of two daughters, and a law-abiding citizen prior to the crash. However, the judge deemed Higgins a flight risk, citing the severity of the charges and the potential for a lengthy prison sentence. During a virtual court appearance, Higgins, who was denied bail, broke down in tears as the judge ordered him to remain in custody until his trial.
The Gaudreau family, who had gathered for Katie's wedding, held a double funeral for Johnny and Matthew, where heartfelt eulogies were delivered by their wives. In Instagram posts, Gaudrau’s wife called him the “absolute best dad in the world” to their children, while the Columbus Blue Jackets Instagram account commented that he was "[f]orever a part of the CBJ family.”
The case has garnered significant public attention, with many mourning the loss of two beloved figures in the hockey community. Higgins now faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 15.
Related Resources:
- Drunk Driving a Horse and Buggy? Appeals Court Upholds Conviction (FindLaw's Courtside)
- Can I Be Arrested for DUI After the Fact? (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)
- From the Rink to the Court: NHL On Trial (FindLaw's Legally Weird)
