Driver Accused of Killing NHL Star and Brother Enters His Plea

The alleged drunk driver accused of killing former NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew last August has pleaded not guilty to all charges related to the fatal accident. 

According to CNN, attorneys for 44-year-old Sean Higgins entered the not-guilty plea at an arraignment hearing Jan. 7 in Salem County, NJ. He was indicted last month on two counts of reckless vehicular homicide, two counts of aggravated manslaughter, and one count each of tampering with physical evidence and leaving the scene of a fatal accident. The not-guilty plea comes after prosecutors offered a deal for 35 years in prison in exchange for a guilty plea. If convicted, he could face up to 30 years in prison for each of the manslaughter charges.

Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Gaudreau were riding bikes on a New Jersey road on Aug. 29 when, according to court documents, Higgins struck the two men while reportedly intoxicated behind the wheel. He was found to have a blood alcohol level of 0.087, well above the legal limit. They died just hours before they were set to serve as groomsmen at their sister's wedding. 

Related: Grim Details Emerge on Driver Charged With Killing NHL Player and Brother

The tragedy was especially heartbreaking as both brothers were fathers-to-be at the time. At Johnny's funeral in September, his wife Meredith revealed she was pregnant with their third child together. And last month, Matthew's widow Madeline announced the birth of their son Tripp Matthew. 

Related: Athletes Pay Tribute to Late NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau

The next court date in the case is set for Feb. 4.