Man Accused of Killing NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau and His Brother Rejects 28-Year Plea Deal — Trial Set for 2027

A major development has emerged in the case surrounding the deaths of professional hockey star Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew Gaudreau. Sean Higgins, 45, the New Jersey man accused of striking and killing the brothers while allegedly driving under the influence in August 2024, has rejected a plea agreement that would have required him to serve 28 years in prison. His decision means the case is heading toward trial, where he could face more than 90 years behind bars if convicted on all charges.

The tragedy occurred on August 29, 2024, in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, as Johnny, 31, and Matthew, 29, were riding bicycles along a rural road on the eve of their sister Katie’s wedding. Prosecutors allege that Higgins attempted to pass another vehicle and struck the brothers. Both died at the scene, turning what should have been a joyful family weekend into an unimaginable loss. Johnny was a celebrated NHL player who had competed for the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets, while Matthew had pursued a career in hockey and worked as a high school coach.

During a pretrial hearing on October 19, 2026, Higgins confirmed that he would not accept the prosecution’s offer. Under the proposed agreement, he would have pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated manslaughter and a first-offense driving-while-intoxicated charge, receiving consecutive 14-year sentences for a total of 28 years in prison. Instead, Higgins has maintained his not-guilty pleas to six charges, including aggravated manslaughter, reckless vehicular homicide, tampering with physical evidence, and leaving the scene of a fatal accident.

The latest hearing also brought new details into focus as photographs of the crash scene were presented in court. Higgins’ defense team has challenged aspects of the investigation, including evidence concerning his blood-alcohol level, and has sought additional police records. Prosecutors have argued that Higgins was driving recklessly and was attempting to pass another vehicle when the collision occurred. The competing arguments will be examined through the legal process, and the charges have not yet resulted in a conviction.

The loss has continued to affect both families long after the crash. Matthew’s wife, Madeline, gave birth to their son, Tripp, in December 2024, several months after his death. Johnny’s wife, Meredith, was pregnant with their third child when she lost her husband. The two women later established the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation to support youth hockey and help families affected by drunk driving. Their efforts have helped preserve the brothers’ legacy while directing attention toward the consequences of impaired driving.

With jury selection scheduled to begin on December 1, 2026, and the trial expected to start in January 2027, the case is approaching a critical stage. If Higgins is convicted on all six charges, he could face a maximum sentence of 91½ years in prison. For the Gaudreau family, the upcoming trial represents another difficult chapter in a tragedy that changed their lives forever, as they await a legal resolution to the deaths of two brothers whose futures were cut short.

Source: PEOPLE