NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew have passed away, after they were hit by a drunk driver Thursday night, while riding their bicycles in Oldmans Township, New Jersey.
That is to say, in view of the tragedy, there has been even more news that has come forth, which adds to the heartbreaking loss of the two young men, as this accident happened right before they were supposed to be the groomsmen in their sister Katie's wedding on Friday.
Furthermore, it has just been reported by TMZ, that Matthew's wife Madeline Gaudreau is currently pregnant, and has been given a due date of December 31, 2024.
Matt Gaudreau's wife Madeline Korbitz is due in 4 months, with the couples first baby
The tragedies just keep piling on.#RIPMattyGaudreau#RIPJohnnyGaudreau pic.twitter.com/F3FaVywuji
— Matt Britton 🇵🇸 #FreePalestine (@DarthTheChef) August 30, 2024
This news was found out from an online registry, that showed the couple had been asking family and friends for newborn items, which would help them in preparing for their expected first child.
In support of Matty Gaudreau's wife and unborn child makes me tear up reading the donations and seeing the hockey community, players and wives come together in support feel free to check it out #CBJ https://t.co/0JNGZjTFDq pic.twitter.com/sh5wkQAqaH
— She.Loves.Avs.n.F1 🦊 (@Avs_n_F1) August 30, 2024
Considering this newly learned devastating development, it has added even more sadness felt by the family.
My heart aches for the Gaudreau family. They were meant to be with Katie on her special day, but now everything has changed forever. Keeping their family and friends in my thoughts and prayers. pic.twitter.com/rBAjiMtIo4
— Preachy Sports (@preachysports) August 30, 2024
The father of the Gaudreau brothers released a statement, which was shared by WBZ-TV Boston news anchor Dan Roche.
"Last night we lost two husbands, two fathers, two sons, two brothers, two sons and brothers in law, two nephews, two cousins, two family members two teammates, two friends but truly two amazing humans."
The "two dads" phrasing in the Gaudreau family statement caught my eye. I don't know if that means Matthew's wife is pregnant, but this is devastating in so many ways. pic.twitter.com/Ytn8I4v6oe
— Tamara (@TamIWas) August 30, 2024
"We want to let everyone know we are receiving your messages of love and support and we appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers," the statement continued on to read. "We ask for your continued respect and privacy during this very difficult period of grief... From all our families and the bottom of our hearts (the Gaudreau, Morris, Korbitz, Venello and Joyce Families)."
Rest in peace, Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/26azFewFUu
— The Players' Tribune (@PlayersTribune) August 30, 2024
Notably, as the brother of 11-year NHL player Johnny Gaudreau, Matthew had a successful hockey career as well, playing four seasons at Boston College; he appeared in 119 games and scored 16 goals to go with 47 assists.
Following his collegiate career, Matthew then went on to play in the AHL for Bridgeport, before joining the Worcester Railers of the ECHL. Most recently, he had been involved with coaching at his high school, and there were reports he may have a role in the Philadelphia Flyers organization, which he had long been connected with after playing with their affiliate teams.
The Philadelphia Flyers are heartbroken to learn of the sudden and tragic passing of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. pic.twitter.com/ydNj2td4kv
— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) August 30, 2024
