NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew, were tragically killed just hours before their sister Katie’s wedding in New Jersey. The two brothers, who were supposed to be groomsmen in the ceremony, were riding their bicycles in Oldmans Township when they were struck from behind by an alleged drunk driver, Sean Higgins. Both Johnny, aged 31, and Matthew, aged 29, died at the scene due to severe injuries.
Katie Gaudreau and her fiancé Devin Joyce had planned their wedding for the following afternoon, with the Gaudreau brothers playing significant roles in the celebration. Johnny’s children were also set to participate as the flower girl and ring bearer. The family had rehearsed for the big day just the night before the tragic accident.
The sudden loss has led to the cancellation of the wedding, as confirmed by a church official, leaving family and friends devastated. The tragic event has sent shockwaves through the hockey community and beyond, as Johnny was well-known as a standout player for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Police arrested Sean Higgins, the driver involved in the crash, and charged him with two counts of death by auto. The investigation into the accident is ongoing, as the Gaudreau family and the wider community mourn the untimely deaths of Johnny and Matthew.
