Trial date set for Sean Higgins in death of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau

A Salem County judge set a trial date for Sean Higgins, who is accused of killing brothers Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau in a New Jersey crash. Jury selection is scheduled to begin December 1, with the trial officially starting January 5, 2027. Higgins faces multiple charges, including reckless vehicular homicide, aggravated manslaughter, and leaving the scene of a fatal accident, and he entered a plea of not guilty in January 2025. Prosecutors allege Higgins struck the two brothers while they were riding bicycles. The defense previously challenged the blood alcohol content evidence presented to the grand jury, while a judge dismissed arguments that the victims contributed to the incident. Johnny Gaudreau, an NHL veteran who played for the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets, was honored during the 2026 Olympics when teammates carried his jersey following a gold medal win against Canada. Higgins is due back in court on October 19.

• 7:30 AMYahoo Sports — Trial date set for man accused of killing Johnny, Matthew Gaudreau in crash