The Gaudreau family has transformed unimaginable tragedy into a source of hope and remembrance, following the loss of their sons, Johnny and Matthew, both professional ice hockey players, who died in a devastating accident last year. The brothers were cycling together on August 29, 2024, in Oldsman Township, New Jersey, when they were struck by a vehicle reportedly driven by Sean M. Higgins, who was allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time. The incident shocked the community and the sports world, leading to charges against Higgins including two counts of death by auto and aggravated manslaughter. As Higgins maintains his not guilty plea, the Gaudreau family continues to navigate their grief and honour the legacies of their beloved sons.
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Johnny, known widely for his talent on the ice, played for the Calgary Flames, while Matthew was also carving out a successful career in professional hockey. The brothers were home to celebrate their sister’s wedding when their lives were tragically cut short. They left behind loving families – Johnny’s wife, Meredith, was expecting their third child, and Matthew’s widow, Madeline, was pregnant with their first child at the time of their untimely passing.
In the months since their deaths, both mothers have welcomed their sons into the world. Madeline gave birth to Tripp Matthew four months after the accident, while Meredith welcomed Carter in April 2025. Jane Gaudreau, the boys’ mother, reflected on how much joy the newborns would have brought to their fathers, noting in a heartfelt Instagram tribute, “I know Carter will share many of the same beautiful qualities as his father.” Similarly, she expressed how they often share stories about Matthew with Tripp.
Guy Gaudreau, complemented by his wife Jane, was instrumental in introducing his sons to ice hockey from a young age. He held the position of hockey director at their local rink and often reminisces about those early days when his boys first skated. His coaching was marked by personal touches; he ensured that Johnny, as a toddler, was motivated by playful incentives like skating towards Skittles. Both boys attributed much of their success to their father’s balanced approach to coaching and fatherhood, highlighting his ability to separate the two.
Jane, on the other hand, has dedicated her professional life to special education. She has worked at Archbishop Damiano School since her youth, a place close to her heart, especially since her brother with disabilities attended the same school. Her commitment to the institution extends to her sons who volunteered there, showcasing the family’s dedication to giving back to the community.
The couple now find solace in their roles as grandparents, often conveying to the media how their grandsons reflect the traits of their late fathers. Jane expressed her belief that the boys are a blessing, stating, “I think God sent us John and Matty back.” She and Guy have actively participated in initiatives to honour their sons, the most notable being a charity 5K run that Jane organised to support the school where she works, aiming to raise funds for a new playground.
The Gaudreau Family 5K, held in May 2025, was a remarkable success, raising over £500,000 for the playground project, which is set to break ground later this year. Jane expressed her hopes that the boys would look down and feel proud of the efforts being made in their memory. The family has also been visibly active in the community, preserving the cheerful and vibrant memories of Johnny and Matthew.
In a poignant moment of remembrance, Jane and Guy attended the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, where they celebrated the USA Men’s Hockey team — an event that Johnny would have aspired to participate in had it not been for the tragedy. As the team claimed the gold medal, an emotional tribute was paid to the brothers, with the children of Johnny brought onto the ice, holding their father’s jersey aloft.
Navigating life without their beloved sons has brought challenges for the Gaudreau family. Yet through their charity work, family ties, and community engagements, they continue to pay tribute to the brothers who brought so much joy to their lives. Their commitment to honouring Johnny and Matthew’s legacies has created a powerful narrative of resilience, love, and remembrance in the face of unimaginable sorrow.