THE alleged drunk driver who was arrested for killing seven-time NHL all-star Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother worked at a rehab center, according to his Linkedin.
The driver, Sean Higgins, 43, has since been placed on leave from his job as a financial operations director for Gaudenzia Addiction Treatment and Recovery Centers, the company said in a statement.
“We received the heartbreaking news regarding the tragic crash that took the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, along with charges brought against Sean Higgins,” the addiction, treatment, and recovery center said.
“Mr. Higgins, an employee of Gaudenzia, was immediately placed on leave,” the company said.
“We extend our sympathies to the Gaudreau family during this incredibly difficult time,” the company wrote.
Gaudreau, who played 11 seasons in the NHL as left-wing for the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets, was biking with his brother Matthew on the eve of their sister’s wedding when they were struck by Higgins, who was allegedly driving drunk, killing them both.
The pair were biking around 8 pm when Higgins allegedly struck them both from behind with his car.
Police responded to the crash and detected alcohol on Higgins’ breath.
According to police, Higgins admitted to having about “five or six beers” before the accident.
He was arrested and charged with two counts of vehicular homicide under suspicion of drunk driving and was ordered to be held in jail until his next court date September 5.
Gaudreauu’s former teammate, Frankie DiChiara, shared a touching final conversation the two had before the tragic accident.
“Matty and I always stayed in touch,” DiChiara said.
“He was one of my best friends,” he said.
DiChiara now coaches a Long Island-based youth Islanders team, which would have competed against the Gaudreauu-led youth team in the same league.
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