Alleged drunk driver who killed Johnny Gaudreau and NHLer’s brother worked at rehab centre

'We extend our sympathies to the Gaudreau family during this incredibly difficult time.'

Published Sep 02, 2024  •  3 minute read

A mugshot of Sean Higgins, 43, who was arrested after Johnny Gaudreau and brother Matthew were struck and killed by a car. New Jersey state police photo Photo by New Jersey state police photo

The alleged drunk driver arrested in the deaths of NHL all-star Johnny Gaudreau and brother Matthew worked at a rehab centre, according to a report by the New York Post.

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Gaudenzia Addiction Treatment and Recovery Centers said in a statement on Saturday that Sean Higgins has been placed on leave from his job as a financial officer following his arrest.

“We received the heartbreaking news regarding the tragic crash that took the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, along with charges brought against Sean Higgins,” Gaudenzia Addiction Treatment and Recovery Centers said, per the Post. “Mr. Higgins, an employee of Gaudenzia, was immediately placed on leave.

“We extend our sympathies to the Gaudreau family during this incredibly difficult time.”

Higgins, 43, listed himself as a decorated U.S. Army major who served in the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team in Kosovo, according to his LinkedIn profile.

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Higgins indicated on LinkedIn that he had been in the New Jersey Army National Guard since 2008 and was still active.

The native of Pilesgrove, N.J., is a married father of two daughters and had been working at the Gaudenzia since Sept. 2023.

Cops allege Higgins slammed his Jeep Grand Cherokee into the backs of the Gaudreau brothers as they were biking the night before their sister’s wedding.

One of a number of images shared by Meredith Gaudreau, widow of former Calgary Flames star Johnny Gaudreau, who was killed along with his brother Thursday after they were struck by a suspected drunk driver while cycling. Meredith Gaudreau/via Instagram

The Gaudreau brothers were pronounced dead at the scene after police say Higgins drove his vehicle into them as they were riding their bikes in their native Salem County, N.J. Higgins was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and has been charged with two counts of death by auto.

During a virtual court appearance Friday, the alleged drunk driver who fatally struck the NHL star and his younger brother looked dejected when a judge told him he was going to be spending the weekend behind bars.

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According to the New York Post, Higgins was ordered to remain in custody until his next hearing on Sept. 5.

“So … I’m here until Thursday?” an exasperated Higgins asked Judge Michael J. Silvanio when he learned he would be held in jail over the long weekend.

New Jersey State Police said the Gaudreau brothers were cycling on a road in Oldmans Township on Thursday night when a man driving an SUV in the same direction attempted to pass two other vehicles and struck them from behind.

According to the criminal complaint obtained by The Associated Press and TMZ Sports, Higgins told authorities he drank “5-6 beers” prior to the crash and admitted to consuming alcohol while driving.

Tributes have been pouring in over social media for the two brothers. Fans in Calgary setup a tribute to the former Flames star, including chalk art, framed photos, sticks and jerseys.

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“Thank you for the best years of my life,” Johnny Gaudreau’s wife, Meredith, wrote on Instagram. 

“Despite losing you, I am still the luckiest girl in the world to have been yours. I love you so so much,” she added. 

“You were perfect. Some days it felt too good to be true. I love every single thing about you. You are my forever and I can’t wait to be with you again. I love you so much forever and ever.” 

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A GoFundMe has been set up to help support Matthew’s wife, Madeline, who is expecting the couple’s first child.

“We are heartbroken to share the devastating news that the Gaudreau family has experienced a tragic and unfathomable loss. On August 29, 2024, a car accident took the lives of Matthew and his brother John,” the page reads.

“In this unimaginably difficult time, we are coming together to support Matthew’s wife, Madeline and their growing baby Tripp, and help alleviate some of the financial burdens they now face. Your support will allow them the time to take off work to grieve and heal as a family.

“Although no amount of money can ease the pain of loss, your support on any level will help take some of the financial weight off the Gaudreau family as they navigate this journey.

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“All donations raised will be transferred directly to Madeline to help pay for funeral expenses and baby Tripp.”

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As of Monday afternoon, the page had raised more than $500Gs US — well surpassing the stated goal of $30,000.

Among some of the donors are several NHL players and alumni, as well as a $10,000 donation from the owner of the Worchester Railers — whom Matthew played parts of three seasons for.

— with files from Mark Daniell

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