Key Testimony Focuses on Higgins’ Account and Alcohol Consumption

Inside a New Jersey courtroom on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, prosecutors presented body camera footage and live testimony from New Jersey State Troopers who responded to the scene of the crash on County Route 551 in Oldmans Township. The hearing centered on whether statements made by Sean Higgins on the night of August 29, 2024, can be used as evidence during his upcoming trial.

The core of the prosecution’s case rests on Higgins’ own admissions, captured on police body cameras. When questioned about the crash, Higgins initially stated, “Last I saw was a bunch of bikers.” He then detailed his intention to overtake a slower-moving vehicle.

“The Jeep in front of me was doing like 30 miles an hour, so I was like ‘I’m gonna pass this guy,’” Higgins explained in the recording, adding that he planned to pass on the left. He further stated that the Jeep then moved back into the left lane, seemingly to warn him of the cyclists ahead.

The Chain of Events Leading to the Tragedy

Higgins’ account painted a picture of escalating impatience and poor judgment. He described being frustrated with the speed of the Jeep and deciding to pass on the right. “I duck over, I didn’t know what that person was doing and I was being impatient,” he said, recounting the moment of impact. “It was instantaneous. As soon as I dumped back into the right lane, I felt the impact.”

The testimony revealed a disturbing admission regarding alcohol consumption. A trooper at the scene noted smelling alcohol on Higgins’ breath. Later, in the body camera footage, Higgins admitted to drinking before the crash. “It had nothing to do with me drinking some beers today. That really wasn’t the problem,” he initially claimed, before conceding, “Obviously, I had alcohol in my system.”

Pressed for details, Higgins stated he had consumed “five or six beers,” initially claiming he drank them at home. However, he later admitted to drinking “a couple of beers” while driving, discarding the empty cans in a panic after the collision. “I was freaking out,” he confessed.

As investigators sought to review his phone, Higgins expressed a desire for legal counsel. “I feel like I need a lawyer,” he stated. Despite this, he continued to speak with investigators, stipulating that he would only do so if he didn’t have to surrender his phone.

Higgins’ attorneys argued that this exchange constituted a violation of his Miranda rights. Prosecutors countered by presenting evidence that investigators had read Higgins his rights, and he acknowledged understanding them.

Judge Michael Silvanio suspended the Miranda hearing until November 10, 2025, to allow time for closing arguments.

The tragic loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau has sent shockwaves through the hockey world and beyond. The National Hockey League has issued statements of condolence, and tributes have poured in from fans and fellow athletes.

This case raises critical questions about the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of responsible decision-making behind the wheel. What measures can be taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future? And how can communities better support victims of drunk driving accidents?

Higgins faces charges of aggravated manslaughter, reckless vehicular homicide, and other offenses. The outcome of the Miranda hearing will significantly impact the admissibility of his statements at trial. The New Jersey Courts website provides further information on the state’s legal system.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Gaudreau Brothers Crash