The recent and tragic accident that resulted in the death of Johnny Gaudreau, NHL star, and his younger brother Matthew, has shocked the sports world and the general public. The person responsible for the accident, identified as Sean Higgins, is a veteran of the United States Army and currently worked as a financial officer at an addiction rehabilitation center.
Higgins, 43, is a resident of Pilesgrove, New Jersey, and has been described as a decorated major who served in Kosovo with the New Jersey Army National Guard. His military record, which includes a promotion to the rank of major during a leadership visit in 2019, contrasts sharply with the serious charges he now faces.
Sean Higgins, responsible for the death of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, is a military veteran
The accident occurred on the night of August 29, when Gaudreau and his brother were riding bicycles on County Route 551 in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. According to police reports, Higgins attempted to pass two vehicles when he struck the brothers from behind.
The news of the accident has led to Higgins' immediate suspension from his position at the Gaudenzia rehabilitation center, where he had been working since September. The institution issued a statement expressing condolences to the Gaudreau family and stating that Higgins has been placed on leave while investigations are carried out.
The accident has sparked a debate about the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol and the responsibility of those who, like Higgins, have served in leadership roles. Despite his military and professional career, Higgins' alleged reckless behavior has led to an irreparable tragedy.
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau leave a huge void in the NHL world
The authorities who arrived at the scene detected a strong smell of alcohol on Higgins, who admitted to having consumed "five or six beers" before the accident. The impact of this tragedy has been devastating for the Gaudreau family and has caused immense pain in the community.
Gaudreau, affectionately known as “Johnny Hockey”, was a beloved figure in the NHL, having played 11 seasons, most of them with the Calgary Flames, before joining the Columbus Blue Jackets. His brother Matthew was also a talented hockey player, although less well-known than Johnny.