The tragic story of brothers Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau has gripped not only their family but the entire hockey community. Both brothers were celebrated figures, known for their passion for the game and their thriving careers. Johnny, just 31 years old, was on the Columbus Blue Jackets roster and previously starred with the Calgary Flames. His younger brother, Matthew, aged 29, had returned home to coach at Gloucester Catholic High School after spending five years playing professionally. Their futures looked bright, filled with promise and opportunity.
Yet, everything changed on the evening of August 29, just one day before their sister's wedding. The Gaudreau brothers were cycling along County Route 551 in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when tragedy struck. Sean Higgins, a 43-year-old Army National Guard officer, allegedly hit the brothers with his SUV after attempting to pass two vehicles. The impact was catastrophic, leading to both of their deaths at the scene.
The incident has brought to light not only the devastating loss of promising lives but also underlying issues surrounding driving under the influence. Higgins, who was suspected of being intoxicated at the time of the crash, reportedly admitted to having consumed alcohol, stating he had "five or six beers" prior to the incident. New Jersey State Police charged him with two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, and other related offenses.
Higgins appeared before Superior Court Judge Michael Silvanio during recent pretrial hearings, where both prosecutor and defense lawyers requested more time to prepare documentation and legal filings. The judge responded by postponing the next hearing to September 13, extending Higgins’ detention at the Salem County Correctional Facility until then. So far, he has not been offered bail, reflecting the seriousness of the charges against him.
The background on Higgins reveals prior driving violations, painting a concerning picture. Investigations by news outlets disclosed his history of unsafe driving. He faced two car crashes over the years and had multiple citations for various offenses, including driving under the influence. New Jersey officials had categorized him as "in good standing" at the time leading to the fatal crash, showcasing how past infractions were seemingly overlooked.
The Gaudreau family was deeply integrated within the South Jersey community and hockey circles. Growing up, Johnny and Matthew honed their skills on ice at Gloucester Catholic High School, and it was here they became known as ice hockey royalty. The impact of their loss was palpable, drawing overwhelming grief and support from fans, teammates, and the broader sports world.
A funeral service for the brothers is scheduled for September 9 at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, located in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. The service promises to be heavily attended, with the Columbus Blue Jackets' entire roster expected to be present. To accommodate the high number of attendees, the funeral will be livestreamed on the team’s official website.
Meanwhile, tributes have poured in from across the hockey community, highlighting the lasting legacy of the brothers. Candlelight vigils took place, drawing hundreds of mourners at the Blue Jackets' arena, showcasing just how much they were loved and respected. Fans have been leaving flowers and personal mementos outside the Scotiabank Saddledome, displaying heartfelt condolences and remembrance for the duo.
The Gaudreau brothers' mother, Katie, had been preparing for what should have been a joyful celebration just the day after their deaths. The tragic loss of her sons has been compounded by the upcoming wedding of their sister, intensifying the family's grief. The community's response—both local and nationwide—has been fervent, with expressions of love and sympathy echoing throughout social media and community platforms.
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau played significant roles not just as athletes, but as inspirations. Their friends and coaches have remembered them as “the most genuine people,” speaking to the brothers' kindness both on and off the ice. This tragedy serves as not only a shocking reminder of the potential for loss due to reckless behavior but also as a moment to honor the spirited lives of two remarkable young men who left us far too soon.
The legal proceedings are still at their early stages, and as the community mourns, the wheels of justice turn slowly. Individuals who knew and loved the Gaudreau brothers are left hoping for accountability, as Sean Higgins sits locked away, awaiting the opportunity to present his defense.
