Just two days ago, NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother were tragically killed while cycling.
Johnny, a player for the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his brother Matthew Gaudreau were struck by Sean M. Higgins, who was allegedly intoxicated at the time of the incident, on a New Jersey highway on Thursday night.
The brothers were riding their bikes north on County Road 551 in Salem County around 8pm when Higgins attempted to overtake two cars, the second being an SUV.
As Higgins overtook in the southbound lane, the second vehicle moved into the middle of the two lanes, creating a space for Johnny and Matthew to pass.
At this moment, Higgins tried to pass the SUV on the right side in his Jeep, colliding with the brothers, who were scheduled to be groomsmen at their sister’s wedding the following day.
Despite causing the deaths of 29-year-old father-to-be Matthew and 31-year-old father-of-two Johnny through his reckless driving, 43-year-old Higgins appeared visibly frustrated when informed by a judge that he would remain in jail until next week.
According to FOX 29, police documents reveal that Higgins admitted to having ‘five to six’ beers prior to driving and also failed a field sobriety test.
Higgins, who has been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, appeared in Salem County Court via video link on Friday.
Judge Michael J. Silvanio told Higgins that he would remain in custody for six more days. The Daily Mail reported that Higgins responded incredulously, saying: “So… I’m here until Thursday.”
The holding period has been extended due to the holiday weekend, the judge explained, leading to Higgins leaning back in his chair and letting out a heavy sigh, according to the publication.
The NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets confirmed the tragic news in a statement shared on Twitter.
The statement reads: “The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy. Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family, and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew.
“Johnny played the game with great joy which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice. He brought a genuine love for hockey with him everywhere he played, from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets. He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could.
“The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him.
“Johnny embraced our community when he arrived two years ago, and Columbus welcomed him with open arms. We will miss him terribly and do everything that we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy.”