Tragic Loss: Gaudreau Brothers Killed by Drunk Driver on Eve of Family Wedding

A heartbreaking tragedy struck the Gaudreau family last Thursday night when brothers Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were fatally hit by a drunk driver while riding their bicycles. The devastating incident occurred just one day before they were set to serve as groomsmen in their sister’s wedding to Devin Joyce. As a result, the couple made the painful decision to postpone their ceremony.

A Family and Hockey Community in Mourning

Johnny Gaudreau, a star winger for the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his brother Matthew, who played hockey at Boston College and for the Bridgeport Islanders in the American Hockey League, were both respected and beloved figures in the sport. Their tragic passing has left the hockey world and the broader sports community in shock and mourning.
Johnny Gaudreau, Devin Joyce, and Katie Gaudreau, Devin Joyce (Photos via Getty Images/@kguadreau13)
“Just devastating news for all of us connected with the Gaudreau family,” said legendary Boston College coach Jerry York in a statement to the Associated Press. “Both Matty and Johnny were terrifically admired by all of us. Wonderful young guys, and they impressed a lot of us off the ice.”

Remembering Johnny and Matthew

Johnny, known for his speed, agility, and playmaking skills, had an illustrious career in the NHL, earning multiple All-Star appearances and becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the sport. His infectious personality and leadership made him a fan favorite, both in Columbus and during his tenure with the Calgary Flames.

Matthew, while not as widely known in the NHL, was a talented player in his own right. Having honed his skills at Boston College, he carved out a solid professional career in the AHL and was known for his dedication and love of the game.

Beyond their accomplishments on the ice, both brothers were admired for their character, kindness, and strong family bonds. Their loss leaves a void not only in their family but also among their teammates, friends, and fans who had the privilege of knowing them.

A Tragedy That Resonates Beyond Hockey

The news of their passing has reverberated across the sports world, with tributes pouring in from fellow athletes, coaches, and organizations. The incident serves as a painful reminder of the dangers of drunk driving, an issue that has claimed too many lives and left families shattered.

As the Gaudreau family grieves, the hockey community stands by them, offering support and honoring the legacy of Johnny and Matthew. Memorials and tributes are expected in the coming days, as their impact on the sport and those around them will not be forgotten.

Though their time was cut tragically short, the Gaudreau brothers will forever be remembered as talented athletes, devoted family members, and exceptional human beings. Their legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and admired them.

More details have emerged on the drunk driver who struck and killed Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew, on Thursday night.

The sports world is mourning the losses of Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau, who were tragically killed when a drunk driver struck them while they were cycling in Oldsmans Township, New Jersey. The brothers were in town for the wedding of their sister, Katie, which was supposed to take place on Friday.
Johnny Gaudreau, Sean Higgins, Matthew Gaudreau (Photos via Getty Images)
The drunk driver has since been identified as 43-year-old Sean Higgins, a father of two from Pilesgrove, New Jersey. Higgins reportedly told police that he had 5-6 beers before the accident.

And in another stunning twist, it turns out that Higgins actually works at a rehab center for a living and is a highly-rank military officer, as noted by Dana Kennedy and Marie Pohl of the New York Post:

“Sean Higgins, 43, of Pilesgrove, NJ, a married father of two young daughters, has worked at the Norristown, Pa., company since September, according to his LinkedIn profile, which also lists him as a decorated US Army major who served in the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team in Kosovo, he wrote in his profile on the networking site.”

Per the Post, Higgins is a financial officer for the Gaudenzia Addiction Treatment and Recovery Centers.

Johnny Gaudreau is survived by his wife, Meredith, and two young children. Matthew’s wife, Madeline, is pregnant with their first child, and a GoFundMe page has been set up to support her during this devastating time.

This unspeakable tragedy is just another reminder to please NEVER drink and drive. Use public transportation or call a taxi, a rideshare company, a family member or friend if you plan to drink.