Matthew Gaudreau, the brother of Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau, was a father-to-be when the two were killed by an alleged drunk driver on Thursday (August 29) night.
Hollan Korbitz, the sister of Matthew’s wife, Madeline, launched a GoFundMe to support Madeline and her growing baby, Tripp, following news of the brothers’ deaths.
“We are heartbroken to share the devastating news that the Gaudreau family has experienced a tragic and unfathomable loss,” Korbitz wrote. “On August 29, 2024, a car accident took the lives of Matthew and his brother John.
“In this unimaginably difficult time, we are coming together to support Matthew’s wife, Madeline and their growing baby Tripp, and help alleviate some of the financial burdens they now face. Your support will allow them the time to take off work to grieve and heal as a family.
“Although no amount of money can ease the pain of loss, your support on any level will help take some of the financial weight off the Gaudreau family as they navigate this journey.
“All donations raised will be transferred directly to Madeline to help pay for funeral expenses and baby Tripp.”
The Gaudreau brothers were riding as “pedalcyclists” when they were struck by a suspected drunk driver hours before they were set to be groomsmen in their sister Katie‘s wedding to hockey player Devin Joyce, Sgt. Jeffrey Lebron of the New Jersey State Police Department confirmed in a statement to NBC News on Friday (August 30). Sean Higgins, 43, was charged with two counts of death by auto.
A Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Higgins struck the brothers while attempting to pass another SUV on the right that had moved over in an attempt to make room for the pedalcyclists in Oldmans Township, according to police. The brothers were reported to have suffered fatal injuries when authorities arrived at the scene.
Johnny Gaudreau was set to enter his 12th NHL season, having previously played for the Calgary Flames before signing with Columbus as part of a seven-year contract prior to the 2022-23 season. The winger, who played for Team USA at five world championships, was an All-Star for a sixth time last season.
The Blue Jackets referred to the Gaudreaus’ deaths as an “unimaginable tragedy” in a statement shared on their social media accounts.
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