Hearing delayed for drunk driver accused over death of Johnny Gaudreau and brother Matthew: Report

By Zachary Roberts

Modified Sep 05, 2024 16:34 GMT

Sean Higgins, the man who was charged with the deaths of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, had his sentence hearing delayed, as per Yahoo News. It was initially supposed to take place virtually at 9 a.m. EDT on Thursday.

Higgins has been charged with two counts of death by auto based on the events of the Aug. 29 incident that took the lives of the Columbus Blue Jackets star and his brother, who were riding bikes. Currently, the charges are just accusations. Higgins has not yet been convicted.

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What's next in Johnny Gaudreau hearing

Sean Higgins appeared in front of Judge Michael J. Silvanio from a booth at the Salem County Jail prior to the motion being scheduled for postponement to 9 a.m., Sept. 14. Silviano will again be the presiding judge on that day.

The proceedings over the deaths of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew will begin on Sept. 13. There, Higgins will either be convicted or not.

In New Jersey, death by auto, which is commonly known as vehicular homicide, is a second-degree crime. It can result in a sentence of five-10 years and a fine of up to $150,000. With two counts, Higgins could be looking at up to 20 years in prison, perhaps more depending on other charges that were brought up.

Fans honor Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew (Imagn)

The former Calgary Flames star and his brother were riding bicycles near their family home in New Jersey. One car moved over to the left to go around the bike lane safely. That is when another driver, allegedly Higgins, passed on the right and struck both brothers.

While they died from their injuries, the driver reportedly did not flee the scene and was later arrested. The Gaudreau brothers were scheduled to participate in their sister's wedding the next day in Philadelphia. Johnny's wife was to be the maid of honor as well.