Sean Higgins Pleads Not Guilty in Gaudreau Case

Sean M. Higgins, 44, pleaded not guilty to charges related to the deaths of NHL stars Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau during a court hearing on January 7. The brothers were killed on August 29 while biking in New Jersey, just before their sister's wedding. Higgins, who allegedly had a blood alcohol level of .087, was indicted on multiple charges, including aggravated manslaughter and vehicular homicide, after reportedly drinking five to six beers before the crash. Prosecutors described Higgins as having a history of road rage and noted that he attempted to hide evidence after the accident. Higgins declined a plea deal that would have resulted in a 35-year prison sentence. The case is set to move toward trial, with a hearing scheduled for February 4.