The suspected drunk driver who killed Gaudreau worked at a rehabilitation center

Article content

The suspected drunk driver arrested in connection with the deaths of NHL All-Star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew worked at a rehabilitation center, according to a report by New York Post.

Article content

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

“We have received the heartbreaking news of the tragic accident that claimed the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, along with the filing of charges against Sean Higgins,” Gaudenzia Addiction Treatment and Recovery Centers said, according to the post“Mr Higgins, an employee of Gaudenzia, was immediately placed on leave.

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

Higgins, 43, said on his LinkedIn profile that he was a decorated major in the U.S. Army who served in the 44th Infantry Brigade in Kosovo.

Article content

Higgins specified on LinkedIn that he has been in the New Jersey Army National Guard since 2008 and is still active.

The Pilesgrover, NJ native is a married father of two daughters and has worked at Gaudenzia since September 2023.

Police say Higgins drove his Jeep Grand Cherokee into the back of the Gaudreau brothers as they were cycling the night before their sister's wedding.

The Gaudreau brothers were pronounced dead at the scene after police said Higgins drove into them with his vehicle while they were riding bicycles in their hometown. Salem County, New JerseyHiggins was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and was charged with two counts of negligent homicide.

At a virtual court hearing on Friday, the alleged drunk driver who fatally struck the NHL star and his younger brother appeared dejected as a judge told him he would have to spend the weekend behind bars.

Article content

Article content

According to the New York PostHiggins was ordered to remain in custody until his next hearing on September 5.

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

We apologize, but this video could not be loaded.

Play video

New Jersey State Police said the Gaudreau brothers were riding their bikes on a road in Oldmans Township on Thursday evening when a man driving an SUV was traveling in the same direction and attempted to pass two other vehicles, ramming them from behind.

According to the criminal complaint obtained by The Associated Press and TMZ Sports, Higgins said According to authorities, he drank “5-6 beers” before the accident and admitted to drinking alcohol while driving.

Tributes to the two brothers poured in on social media, with fans in Calgary creating a memorial to the former Flames star, including chalk art, framed photos, bats and jerseys.

Article content

Article content

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

“Even though I lost you, I'm still the luckiest girl in the world because I was yours. I love you so much,” she added.

“You were perfect. Some days it felt too good to be true. I love everything about you. You are mine forever and I can't wait to be with you again. I love you so much, always and forever.”

Article content

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

“It is with great pain that we share the devastating news that the Gaudreau family has suffered a tragic and unfathomable loss. On August 29, 2024, Matthew and his brother John lost their lives in a car accident,” the site says.

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

“While no amount of money can ease the pain of loss, your support at any level will help ease some of the financial burden on the Gaudreau family as they journey through life.

Article content

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

By Monday afternoon, the site had already raised over $500,000, significantly exceeding its stated goal of $30,000.

Donors include several NHL players and alumni, as well as a $10,000 donation from the owner of the Worchester Railers, for whom Matthew played for three seasons.

— with files from Mark Daniell

Article content