---
title: "Judge Denies Motion to Dismiss Charges in Gaudreau Brothers' Deaths"
description: "Ruling keeps vehicular homicide case against Sean M. Higgins on track for trial."
url: https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/report-judge-denies-motion-to-dismiss-charges-against-man-a-mp29n9sp
published: 2026-05-12T06:02:26+00:00
updated: 2026-05-12T23:39:30.204+00:00
author: "Kostadin Stamboliev"
publisher: "Pineido"
site: "Sportopod"
language: en
topics: ["hockey"]
---

# Judge Denies Motion to Dismiss Charges in Gaudreau Brothers' Deaths

> Ruling keeps vehicular homicide case against Sean M. Higgins on track for trial.

A New Jersey judge has denied a defense motion to dismiss charges against Sean M.

Higgins, the man accused of killing NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew in a 2024 car crash.

The ruling, issued on [date not specified in enrichment], keeps the case on track for trial.

Higgins faces multiple counts including vehicular homicide and aggravated manslaughter.

The Gaudreau family has been vocal in seeking justice since the tragedy, which united the hockey world in grief.

The decision marks a significant procedural step, ensuring the legal process continues for a case that has deeply shaken the sport.

Johnny Gaudreau, a beloved NHL forward, and his brother Matthew were killed when Higgins allegedly struck them while driving under the influence.

This ruling offers a measure of accountability for the Gaudreau family and the broader sports community.

It prevents the case from being derailed before trial, allowing evidence to be presented in court.

The emotional resonance for hockey fans is profound, as the pursuit of justice for two brothers whose deaths united the sport in grief remains a central focus.

What's next: The case proceeds toward trial, with the next court date expected to be set soon.

Higgins remains in custody pending further proceedings.

## Why this matters

This ruling ensures the legal process continues for a tragedy that claimed two beloved hockey figures. It keeps the case in the public eye and offers a measure of accountability for the Gaudreau family and the broader sports community. For hockey fans, it represents a step toward justice for two brothers whose deaths united the sport in grief, reinforcing that the pursuit of accountability remains active.

## Frequently asked

### Who is Sean M. Higgins?

Sean M. Higgins is the man accused of killing NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew in a 2024 car crash. He faces multiple charges including vehicular homicide and aggravated manslaughter.

### What did the judge rule?

A New Jersey judge denied a defense motion to dismiss charges against Higgins, keeping the case on track for trial. The ruling is a procedural step that allows the case to proceed.

### Why is this case significant for hockey fans?

Johnny Gaudreau was a beloved NHL player, and his brother Matthew was also a hockey figure. Their deaths united the sport in grief, and this ruling ensures accountability remains a focus.

### What happens next in the case?

The case proceeds toward trial, with the next court date expected to be set soon. Higgins remains in custody pending further proceedings.

## Sources & Citations

- [Report: Judge denies motion to dismiss charges against man accused of killing Gaudreau brothers](https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/report-judge-denies-motion-to-dismiss-charges-against-man-accused-of-killing-gaudreau-brothers/) — TheNewsAPI.com (2026-05-12)

---

Cite: Judge Denies Motion to Dismiss Charges in Gaudreau Brothers' Deaths. Sportopod, 2026-05-12. https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/report-judge-denies-motion-to-dismiss-charges-against-man-a-mp29n9sp