NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother Matthew were tragically killed by a suspected drunk driver on Thursday evening in their home state of New Jersey while riding their bicycles. The brothers were both scheduled to be groomsmen at their sister Katie’s wedding, which was scheduled for Friday. New Jersey State police reported the brothers were cycling on a road when a man driving an SUV in the same direction attempted to pass two other vehicles and struck them from behind. They were pronounced dead at the scene. Johnny leaves behind two young children and his wife, Meredith. 

It has been reported the suspect, Sean M. Higgins, told a responding officer that he had five or six beers before the accident and admitted to consuming alcohol while driving. He failed a field sobriety test, and his blood alcohol level was not immediately available. Higgins has been charged with two counts of death by auto along with reckless driving, possession of an open container and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle. 

Statistics from “MADD” report; 

-Every 78 seconds, someone is killed or in a drunk driving crash. 

-About 32% of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers (with BACs of o.8 g/dL or higher). 

-Drunk driving deaths are up 33% since 2019. 

-2 out of 3 people will be impacted by drunk driving in their lifetime. 

Driving under the influence is a serious offence with potentially deadly outcomes. To ensure safety on the road, remember this key principle: if you’ve been drinking, do not drive. Here are some straightforward tips to help you stay responsible: 

∙Plan for a safe ride home before you choose to drink; have a designated driver. 

∙If you know someone has been drinking, do not let them get behind the wheel.

∙Order an Uber or lift, or have a friend or family member to ensure a safe drive home. 

∙If you are hosting an event with alcohol, make sure all guests leave with a sober driver. 

∙Always wear your seatbelt. 

If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact the police. Your actions could help save a life. 

Home

https://www.alberta.ca/impaired-driving

https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/TrafficVehicles/ImpairedDriving/CurbTheDanger