The tragic deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, brothers who were struck by a vehicle while cycling in their hometown of Oldmans Township, New Jersey, sent shockwaves through their community and beyond. The incident occurred on August 29, 2024, the eve of their sister Katie’s wedding, where they were to serve as groomsmen. Johnny, 31, left behind a wife, Meredith, and two young children, while Matthew, 29, was survived by his wife, Madeline, who was expecting their first child. The brothers were remembered fondly by family and friends as inseparable and deeply loved. Katie’s heartfelt Instagram tribute captured the essence of their bond, highlighting their unwavering connection and the immeasurable void their loss created within the family.
The driver of the vehicle, Sean M. Higgins, 44, from Woodstown, New Jersey, was immediately taken into custody. Initial reports indicated that Higgins attempted to overtake two vehicles while driving behind them. After successfully passing the first vehicle, a sedan, he attempted to re-enter his lane. However, the SUV in front had moved to the center of the road to safely pass Johnny and Matthew, who were cycling on the right side. Higgins then tried to pass the SUV on the right, tragically colliding with the brothers and inflicting fatal injuries. Field sobriety tests administered at the scene pointed to Higgins’ intoxication, and he reportedly admitted to consuming five or six beers before the accident. He was subsequently booked into the Salem County Correctional Facility and charged with two counts of vehicular homicide.
The incident, initially treated as a vehicular homicide case, took a more serious turn with the involvement of a grand jury. On December 10, 2024, Higgins was indicted on additional charges, including aggravated manslaughter. This more severe charge signifies the grand jury’s determination that Higgins’ actions demonstrated a reckless disregard for human life, exhibiting extreme indifference to the potential consequences. Under New Jersey law, aggravated manslaughter is a first-degree offense, carrying a significantly harsher potential penalty than vehicular homicide. While the initial vehicular homicide charges each carried a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, aggravated manslaughter can result in a much longer term.
The case against Sean M. Higgins remains an active investigation by the New Jersey police. While initial charges and the subsequent indictment have been made, the legal proceedings are ongoing. Higgins, identified as a field artillery officer with the Army National Guard, was off-duty at the time of the accident. He was also employed by Gaudenzia, a rehabilitation facility, which placed him on leave following the incident. This additional information about Higgins’ background and employment provides a fuller context to the situation but does not alter the gravity of the charges against him.
The legal proceedings following the initial arrest included a virtual court appearance by Higgins on the day after the accident. Judge Michael J. Silvanio scheduled a detention hearing, which was subsequently postponed. Further court proceedings, including a post-indictment arraignment, are scheduled for January 7. Until then, Higgins will remain in custody, awaiting the outcome of the legal process. This arraignment will be a crucial step in determining the direction of the case and the specific charges Higgins will ultimately face. The ongoing investigation and pending court dates underscore the complexity of the case and the pursuit of justice for Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.
The Gaudreau family, grappling with the immense loss of two beloved sons and brothers, awaits the results of the ongoing legal process. While the criminal proceedings cannot restore their loved ones, the pursuit of justice offers a measure of solace and accountability. The outpouring of support from their community and the wider public highlights the devastating impact of this tragedy and the collective desire for a just resolution. As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus remains on honoring the memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau and providing support to their grieving families.
