According to the New York Post, Sean Higgins, the driver charged in the fatal hit-and-run of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, has filed court documents revealing that both victims had higher blood alcohol levels than him during the tragic incident.

The 44-year-old driver submitted new court papers Tuesday seeking dismissal of his indictment while disclosing details about the Gaudreau brothers' blood alcohol content.

Court documents indicate Johnny's blood alcohol concentration measured 0.129%, while Matthew's reached 0.134%, both surpassing Higgins' level of 0.087%.

Defense team pursues dismissal through legal strategy

Higgins' attorneys, Richard Klineburger III and Matthew Portella emphasize their focus on protecting their client's constitutional rights. Their legal strategy involves requesting additional information about blood alcohol testing procedures. The defense team carefully avoids suggesting any correlation between the victims' intoxication levels and the fatal collision's cause.

New Jersey state law creates an important distinction regarding intoxicated cycling. Riding a bicycle while under the influence does not constitute a DWI offense, as bicycles are not classified as motor vehicles. Intoxicated cyclists may face disorderly conduct charges instead of more serious DWI penalties.

The tragic incident occurred in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, where Higgins allegedly consumed six beers before striking the brothers. His blood alcohol reading exceeded the legal limit, leading to multiple charges ,including manslaughter and vehicular homicide.

Devastating impact ripples through Gaudreau family

The brothers' deaths created shockwaves throughout the hockey community and devastated their family. The timing proved particularly heartbreaking, as the accident occurred just before their sister's wedding celebration. The tragedy deepened when it was revealed that Matthew's widow, Madeline, was expecting their first child.

Matthew's son entered the world late last year, never having the chance to meet his father. The family's grief garnered significant public sympathy, leading to widespread support, including a GoFundMe campaign that generated over $500,000 for Matthew's family.

Higgins' recent court filing marks a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings. Last month, he declined a plea agreement and entered not guilty pleas to the charges against him.

Legal consequences loom over hit-and-run case

Higgins' attorneys released a statement explaining their position, saying:

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

The case's gravity becomes apparent through potential sentencing guidelines. Should Higgins face conviction on all charges, he could receive a prison sentence exceeding 60 years. The Gaudreau family's legal representatives have not issued public comments regarding the latest court filing.

Final developments reshape tragic narrative

Sean Higgins faces serious legal consequences after allegedly striking and killing NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew while driving under the influence in New Jersey.

The court documents reveal that both victims had blood alcohol concentrations surpassing the driver's level at the time of the incident.

The case continues evolving as Higgins' defense team pursues dismissal of charges that could result in more than six decades of imprisonment. Meanwhile, the Gaudreau family copes with their devastating loss, including Matthew's widow raising their child who arrived months after the tragic accident.

Lessons to learn from this tragedy

1. Awareness of Substance Impacts: Understanding how alcohol affects your ability to operate vehicles, including bicycles, is crucial. Regardless of legality, safety should always come first.

2. Legal Preparedness: Everyone should be aware of their legal rights and the potential complexities of criminal charges, which can hinge greatly on the specifics of the case.

3. Community Support: Tragedies are a reminder of the importance of community support systems in times of loss and grief. Helping each other through tough times builds stronger, more resilient communities.

Why this story matters

This case holds importance due to its legal, ethical, and social implications. It underscores the serious consequences of impaired driving and the broader societal responsibilities of individuals under the influence. The legal outcomes could also set precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future.

The case against Sean Higgins is a complex intersection of law, personal tragedy, and public interest, spotlighting critical issues around responsibility, the impact of alcohol on judgment and motor skills, and the immense consequences that can stem from decisions made under the influence.

As the legal proceedings advance, the community remains tightly focused on the unfolding developments, seeking justice for the Gaudreau brothers and clarity on safety and responsibility standards for all road users.