In a shocking turn of events relating to the fatal hit-and-run that claimed the lives of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, accused driver Sean Higgins has moved to dismiss the charges against him.
Sean Higgins argues that the Gaudreau brothers were more intoxicated than he was at the time of their deaths, New York Post reported.
The incident occurred last August in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when Sean Higgins hit Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau while they were riding their bicycles. According to court documents, Higgins, who had consumed six beers before the accident, now faces multiple charges, including manslaughter and vehicular homicide following their deaths. His blood alcohol concentration at the time was recorded at 0.087%, just over the state's legal driving limit of 0.08%.
In contrast, Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau’s blood alcohol concentration levels were significantly higher, at 0.129% and 0.134%, respectively. These details have surfaced as Higgins challenges the legal proceedings against him. His legal representatives argue that the public and media scrutiny surrounding the case is leading to unfair treatment of their client.
Relying on the disparity in blood alcohol levels, Higgins last month declined a plea deal. He submitted not-guilty pleas to his charges and is potentially facing over 60 years in prison if convicted. His current legal move includes requesting the court to dismiss his indictment on grounds that do not directly assert the brothers' intoxication as a contributing factor to the incident itself.
Further complicating the tragic case, this fatal incident happened on the eve of the Gaudreau brothers' sister's wedding, adding a poignant layer of sorrow to the catastrophe. Higgins' defense team, led by attorneys Richard Klineburger III and Matthew Portella, emphasizes their client's right to a fair legal process, stating, "We believe these filings are essential to ensuring that our client’s Constitutional rights are protected and that he is not being treated unfairly based upon the amount of publicity being garnered."
Despite Higgins' approach, New Jersey does not charge individuals with DWI for riding bicycles under the influence, as bicycles are not considered motor vehicles. However, authorities could still charge such behavior as disorderly conduct.
The deaths have left an indelible mark on the Gaudreau family and the broader community. Matthew's widow was pregnant at the time of his death, and their child was born later that year, bringing a bittersweet sentiment to an already heartrending situation. As the legal procedures march onward, community support for the bereaved family remains steadfast.
Higgins' defense is pushing for further examination on the methods used to obtain the blood alcohol readings of both parties involved, which could play a crucial role in the courtroom battles ahead. The defense team's filings seek to rethink the foundation of the prosecution's arguments, potentially influencing the trajectory of the case.
This incident not only devastated a family but also kindled debates on road safety, the responsibilities of drivers, and the consequences of intoxication in public spaces. People are closely watching Higgins' trial and its outcomes, as they may set precedents for how similar cases are handled in terms of public influence and legal rights in the judicial process.
The local community, while rallying behind the grief-stricken Gaudreau family, also awaits clarity on the legal interpretations of such distressing incidents. With the media spotlight intensifying, the pending legal decisions will likely shape discussions on justice, accountability, and the media's role in high-profile cases for years to come.
As the case unfolds, public interest remains high, with both the legal outcomes and the ethical implications at the heart of discussions. The memory of the Gaudreau brothers continues to influence public awareness about road safety awareness and its legal entanglements.
The forthcoming legal proceedings will likely continue to capture the media's attention, intertwining the tragic loss, community responses, and the debate over fairness and justice under the scrutinizing influence of public and media scrutiny. The case against Higgins, steeped in legal complexities and emotional charges, remains a focal point of significant discourse in the community and beyond.
