The hockey world and the town of Carneys Point, New Jersey, are in mourning. Matthew Gaudreau, soon to be a father, and his brother, NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, were tragically killed while riding bicycles by a drunk driver on Thursday. The devastating news has left their family, friends, and the entire hockey community in shock.
According to police, a driver of a Jeep Grand Cherokee hit two “pedalcyclists,” identified as the Gaudreaus, from behind while trying to pass an SUV on the right that had moved over to make way for the two cyclists. Police, who responded to the scene in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, at 8:19 p.m., said both Gaudreaus suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene some 35 miles south of Philadelphia.
The driver, Sean Higgins, 43, is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and 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.
Matthew, 29, was eagerly anticipating the arrival of his first child. Johnny, 31, was a beloved figure in the NHL, known for his talent and sportsmanship. The loss of both brothers has cast a pall of grief over those who knew them.
The accident, occurring near their hometown days before their sister’s wedding, has deepened the family’s sorrow. The outpouring of support from across the globe speaks to the brothers’ impact.
As the Gaudreau family grieves, the hockey world mourns the loss of a rising star and a beloved veteran. Johnny’s enthusiasm and Matthew’s strength will be missed. Their legacy, however, will endure through the countless lives they touched and the memories they created.
