Attorneys for driver accused of killing Gaudreau brothers make shocking claim

WorldPolitics
26 Feb 2026 • 3:31 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Sean Higgins, accused of killing NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew in an alleged drunk-driving incident, had his lawyers claim he was below the legal alcohol limit.
  • The Gaudreau brothers were killed on Aug. 29, 2024, in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when Higgins's car allegedly struck them while they were cycling.
  • Higgins's lawyers argued in court that a blood test, which showed a blood alcohol level of .087, only examined plasma and not whole blood, suggesting the actual figure was .075, below New Jersey's legal limit of .08.
  • During his arrest, Higgins told officers he had consumed 'five or six' beers since noon, as shown in body camera footage.
  • Higgins is currently facing charges including aggravated manslaughter and reckless vehicular homicide, with the next hearing scheduled for April 14.

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