Suspected drunk driver who hit, killed Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau ordered to remain in custody

WOODBURY, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — A judge on Friday ordered Sean Higgins to remain in jail on vehicular homicide charges following the deaths of local hockey stars Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau last month in Salem County, New Jersey.

Higgins quietly sobbed and wiped tears from his face as his attorneys and the state argued over whether he should remain in jail to face two homicide by vehicle charges. Assistant prosecutor Jonathan Flynn said Higgins was drinking while driving and has a history of alcohol abuse and road rage — which his wife has made statements about.

“The wife was very upset with him. ‘I’ve told you before not to do that stuff. You don’t listen to me. I’m done. You were probably driving like a nut like I always tell you that you do. And you don’t listen to me. Instead, you just yell at me,’ ” said Flynn.

“I think the evidence and the record is there, again, from the statements from perhaps the person who knows him best — his wife.”

Higgins’ attorney, Matthew Portella, submitted a dozen letters from friends and family speaking to his character, calling him a loving father and active member of the community.

“He’s not a flight risk,” said Portella. “Prior to this incident, he would be what we call a model citizen. He was an excellent student, an athlete, a leader.”

Flynn argued there are no conditions the court could impose to prevent Higgins, who was on suicide watch, from harming himself and potentially others if he was released.

Judge Michael Silvanio agreed and ordered Higgins to remain in custody, with another court appearance scheduled for Oct. 15.

Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were riding their bikes on the evening of Aug. 29 when they were struck and killed by Higgins. It was the eve of their sister’s wedding.

Johnny Gaudreau , an NHL All-Star, was on the Columbus Blue Jackets. Both brothers played big roles in the local hockey community , playing throughout high school and college. A joint funeral service was held earlier this week in Media, Pennsylvania.