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Accused in Gaudreau brothers’ deaths to stay in jail during ongoing case proceedings
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    Accused in Gaudreau brothers’ deaths to stay in jail during ongoing case proceedings

    The man accused of killing NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, while driving under the influence will remain in jail as the case proceeds, a New Jersey judge ruled Friday morning.

    New Jersey Superior Court Judge Michael J. Silvanio accepted the state’s argument that Sean M. Higgins, 43, should remain in jail, primarily because of concerns about whether Higgins would be able to safely operate a vehicle if released on bail.

    Next court date is Oct. 15.

    While making his case for detention, New Jersey prosecutor Jonathan Flynn called Higgins a “danger” to the community, citing the “reckless” driving and “road rage” alleged in this incident. The state introduced evidence that stated Higgins’ blood-alcohol level as recorded by the on-site sobriety test was .087. The legal limit in New Jersey is .08.

    One of Higgins’ lawyers, Matthew Portella, also appearing via video conferencing, maintained Higgins was “well-respected” and “a true patriot,” “who made a horrible decision on the night of the incident” and was not a flight risk. Higgins, who saw active duty in the U.S. Army in Iraq from 2004-08, is also represented by Richard F. Kleinburger.

    Higgins, who has been in custody since being arrested in connection with the incident and appeared in a video conference from Salem County jail, appeared to wipe away tears throughout the hearing.

    The judge, defence lawyers and prosecutor spent 20 minutes in a private meeting before the matter was discussed in court.

    The Gaudreau brothers were cycling on a road on the night of Aug. 29 when a man driving an SUV in the same direction attempted to pass two other vehicles on the right side and struck the cyclists from behind at around 8 p.m., according to New Jersey State Police. The Gaudreaus were pronounced dead at the scene.

    Their sister was due to get married the next day in Philadelphia.

    Police allege Higgins was under the influence of alcohol, and he’s charged with two counts of death by auto/vehicular manslaughter, along with reckless driving, possession of an open container and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle.

    The maximum sentence for a conviction would be 20 years.

    — With files from The Associated Press

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    The accused in the tragic deaths of the Gaudreau brothers will remain in jail as the case continues to unfold. The brothers, aged 8 and 12, were found dead in their home earlier this month, sparking shock and outrage in the community.

    The accused, who cannot be named due to a publication ban, was arrested shortly after the discovery of the boys’ bodies. He has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and is currently awaiting trial.

    During a recent court appearance, the accused’s lawyer argued for his release on bail, citing his lack of criminal record and ties to the community. However, the judge ultimately ruled that he would remain in custody due to the seriousness of the charges and the potential risk to public safety.

    The case has gripped the community and left many wondering how such a tragedy could occur. As the legal proceedings continue, it is important for the public to remember that everyone is innocent until proven guilty. The accused will have his day in court to present his side of the story, and it is crucial that justice be served for the Gaudreau brothers and their grieving family.

    In the meantime, the community has come together to support the family in their time of need. Fundraisers have been organized, and a memorial has been set up outside the boys’ home to honor their memory.

    As the case moves forward, it is important for the public to respect the legal process and allow justice to take its course. The accused will have his day in court, and the truth will eventually come to light. In the meantime, our thoughts are with the Gaudreau family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.