NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew Gaudreau, were tragically killed in a cycling accident in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, after being struck by an alleged drunk driver.

The crash occurred on the evening of their sister's wedding, casting a shadow over what should have been a joyous occasion for the family, and placing a member of the U.S. military in serious legal jeopardy, as the New York Post reports.

Johnny, 31, and Matthew, 29, were out for a bike ride on County Route 551 around 8 p.m. when Sean Higgins, a 43-year-old U.S. Army major and financial officer at Gaudenzia Addiction Treatment and Recovery Centers, reportedly crashed into them from behind. Higgins was attempting to pass two other vehicles at the time of the collision.

The responding state trooper detected alcohol on Higgins' breath, and Higgins allegedly admitted to having consumed “five or six beers” prior to the accident. He was subsequently arrested on two counts of vehicular homicide under suspicion of driving under the influence.

Alleged Drunk Driver Worked in Addiction Treatment

Sean Higgins, the alleged driver, has worked at Gaudenzia Addiction Treatment and Recovery Centers since September as a financial officer. The irony of his position in an organization dedicated to helping those struggling with addiction has not gone unnoticed.

Following the crash, Gaudenzia placed Higgins on leave. The organization expressed its sympathies to the Gaudreau family in a statement, saying, “We received the heartbreaking news regarding the tragic crash that took the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, along with charges brought against Sean Higgins.”

Gaudenzia added, “Mr. Higgins, an employee of Gaudenzia, was immediately placed on leave. We extend our sympathies to the Gaudreau family during this incredibly difficult time.”

A Decorated Soldier's Career Now in Limbo

Sean Higgins, in addition to his work at Gaudenzia, is a decorated U.S. Army major. His military career includes service in the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team in Kosovo. According to his LinkedIn profile, Higgins has been with the New Jersey Army National Guard since 2008 and remains active in the role.

Higgins is also a married father of two young daughters, adding another layer of tragedy to this incident. Neighbors of Higgins’ parents expressed their shock and sorrow over the event, with one neighbor stating, “The family, they are great people. It’s sad. It’s tragic I would say.”

Higgins is currently being held without bail, awaiting a detention hearing scheduled for Sept. 5. His future, both in the military and in civilian life, remains uncertain as the legal process unfolds.

Grieving a Hockey Family's Loss

Johnny Gaudreau, a standout player in the NHL and former star at Boston College, was widely admired both on and off the ice. His brother Matthew, who also played hockey at Boston College, was equally passionate about the sport.

The Gaudreau family, who should have been celebrating a wedding, is now grappling with the sudden and devastating loss of two beloved sons. Johnny’s widow, Meredith Gaudreau, shared a moving tribute on social media, expressing the depth of her grief and love for her late husband.

“Thank you for the best years of my life,” she wrote. “Despite losing you, I am still the luckiest girl in the world to have been yours. I love you so so much. You were perfect. Some days it felt too good to be true. I love every single thing about you. You are my forever and I can’t wait to be with you again. I love you so much forever and ever.”

Community Reeling from the Double Tragedy

The news of the Gaudreau brothers' deaths has sent shockwaves through the hockey community and beyond. Both Johnny and Matthew were not only known for their skills on the ice but also for their character and the way they treated those around them.

Friends, fans, and former teammates have expressed their condolences and shared memories of the brothers, painting a picture of two individuals who were loved by many. The loss is particularly felt at Boston College, where both brothers left a lasting legacy.

The tragic circumstances surrounding their deaths have also sparked discussions about the dangers of drunk driving, especially among those who are supposed to set an example for others. Higgins' role at Gaudenzia, an addiction treatment center, adds a layer of painful irony to the tragedy.

Legal Proceedings and What Lies Ahead

As Higgins awaits his detention hearing, the legal proceedings are expected to draw significant attention. Vehicular homicide charges are serious, and if convicted, Higgins could face a lengthy prison sentence. The case will likely raise questions about the responsibilities of those in positions like Higgins, who work in fields related to substance abuse and recovery.

For now, the Gaudreau family and the wider community are left to mourn the loss of two young men whose lives were cut tragically short. The full impact of this incident will be felt for years to come as the family, friends, and fans of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau continue to process their grief.

In conclusion, the tragic deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau have not only devastated their family and the hockey community but have also brought attention to the broader issue of drunk driving. Sean Higgins, a U.S. Army major and addiction treatment center employee, faces serious charges and an uncertain future. The coming weeks will see the legal proceedings move forward, but the emotional impact of this tragedy will linger far longer.