The funeral arrangements for John and Matthew Gaudreau, two brothers who were tragically killed by a suspected drunken driver while riding their bicycles in New Jersey, have been made. The service will be held at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Media, Pennsylvania, which is the brothers’ home state. John Gaudreau, also known as “Johnny Hockey” in the hockey world, played for the Columbus Blue Jackets, and the team has announced that they will live stream the service on their website. The driver responsible for the accident, Sean M. Higgins, is currently in jail awaiting his next court appearance.
At his first pretrial hearing, Higgins appeared virtually, and the judge has delayed the hearing to allow attorneys more time to prepare. Higgins faces charges of two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, possession of an open container, and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle. His legal representation, including attorneys Matthew Portella and Richard Klineburger III, released a statement expressing the tragic nature of the incident and refraining from making any further comments outside of court.
In the wake of this terrible loss, the hockey community has come together to mourn the Gaudreau brothers. Fans, players, and officials from various teams and organizations, including the Columbus Blue Jackets and the NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, are expected to attend the funeral. The outpouring of support has been immense, with candlelight vigils held in Columbus and Calgary, where fans paid tribute to John and Matthew.
The impact of the Gaudreau brothers on those around them is evident in the words of their longtime agent, Lewis Gross, who spoke about the profound influence they had on his life. Obituaries have directed contributions to the John & Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, showcasing the lasting legacy that the brothers will leave behind. USA Hockey executive director Pat Kelleher and former player Kevin Stevens also offered their condolences and prayers for the family during this difficult time.
The loss of John and Matthew Gaudreau has left a void in the hearts of the hockey community. The tragic circumstances surrounding their deaths serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of senseless acts. As the community comes together to mourn and remember the brothers, it is clear that their memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.
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