A recent bodycam video released by the New Jersey State Police shows the chilling moments after a drunk driver allegedly struck and killed NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew while they were riding bikes. The video, which captures the interactions between the police and the accused driver, Sean Higgins, reveals a stark contrast between the driver’s confused and nonchalant demeanor and the tragic reality of the situation.
On the evening of August 29, 2024, Sean Higgins, 43, was reportedly driving under the influence when he attempted to pass another vehicle. In doing so, he struck the Gaudreau brothers, who were cycling along the road. The collision occurred around sunset, and Higgins, unaware of the severity of the incident, continued driving. Police later found him standing outside his vehicle, where he appeared visibly wobbly, likely due to his intoxication.
In the bodycam footage, a trooper approaches Higgins and begins asking questions. “Where were you coming from, sir?” the trooper inquires. Higgins responds casually, mentioning that he had just left Taco Bell, though he later adds that he had been at home earlier. When asked about his alcohol consumption, Higgins admits to having been drinking beers but insists he hadn’t had one in the last two hours. Despite his claims, his behavior and physical coordination suggest otherwise.
The troopers proceed to administer a series of field sobriety tests. Higgins struggles to complete them, wobbling as he walks forward and backward, and having difficulty standing on one foot. When asked to explain his struggles, he cites a recent knee surgery as the reason for his instability. He also confesses to drinking “five or six” beers earlier in the day. As the situation unfolds, Higgins becomes increasingly agitated, stating, “I’m just freaked out, like, what am I supposed to be doing again?” His confusion and lack of awareness are evident throughout the interaction.
At this point, the troopers place Higgins under arrest, reading him his rights before handcuffing him. As he is led away, Higgins asks, “Is everything OK back there? I mean, what happened?” The trooper responds that they will discuss the details later, but the grim reality is that Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were already dead. Johnny Gaudreau, a well-known forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his younger brother Matthew, were in New Jersey for their sister’s wedding when the tragic accident occurred.
Further investigation revealed that Higgins had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.087, just over the legal limit of 0.08. In the aftermath, a grand jury indicted him on multiple charges, including two counts of second-degree reckless vehicular homicide, two counts of first-degree aggravated manslaughter, fourth-degree tampering with evidence, and second-degree leaving the scene of a fatal accident.
The release of the bodycam footage has sparked public outrage and sadness, with many expressing disbelief at the driver’s apparent lack of awareness of the consequences of his actions. The tragic deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau have left a lasting impact on their family, friends, and the hockey community. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence and the devastating consequences that can result from such reckless behavior.
