Gaudreau Parents Hospitalized Following Tragic Deaths of Sons Johnny and Matthew

Oldmans Township, New Jersey – The parents of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were hospitalized in the immediate aftermath of their sons' tragic deaths on August 29, 2024. Their mother, Jane Gaudreau, entered a catatonic-like state, unable to respond to her daughter Katie's pleas, as detailed in a report by The Athletic, which was shared on social media by The New York Times. The devastating incident occurred when Johnny, 31, and Matthew, 29, were fatally struck by an alleged drunk driver while cycling near their childhood home on the eve of their sister Katie's wedding.

The brothers were riding bicycles on County Route 551 in Oldmans Township when Sean M. Higgins, 43, allegedly struck them. According to court documents, Higgins, who later registered a blood alcohol level of 0.087%, above the legal limit of 0.08%, admitted to consuming five or six beers that day, some while driving. He is charged with two counts of death by auto, along with reckless driving and other offenses.

The profound shock of the loss led to both Guy and Jane Gaudreau being admitted to a local hospital. Guy Gaudreau was hospitalized due to an elevated heart rate and blood pressure, while Jane Gaudreau's condition was described by family as a catatonic-like state. They remained in the hospital for two nights, receiving care in separate rooms but allowed to share a bed.

Johnny Gaudreau, widely known as "Johnny Hockey," was a prominent left winger for the Columbus Blue Jackets, having previously played eight seasons with the Calgary Flames. Matthew Gaudreau was also a professional hockey player who later transitioned to coaching at the youth level. Both brothers were set to serve as groomsmen at their sister's wedding the following day.

The hockey community and beyond mourned the sudden loss of the brothers. Tributes poured in from NHL teams, players, and fans, with makeshift memorials appearing at arenas and the crash site. The widows of Johnny and Matthew, Meredith and Madeline Gaudreau, have since established The John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation to support youth hockey and assist families affected by tragedy and drunk driving. Legal proceedings against Higgins are ongoing, with a judge upholding charges despite defense arguments regarding the brothers' own toxicology reports.