The city of Philadelphia is preparing to bid farewell to John and Matthew Gaudreau, two beloved brothers who tragically lost their lives in a senseless accident. The funeral for the Gaudreau brothers has been scheduled for Monday at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Media, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia. The Columbus Blue Jackets, the team John Gaudreau played for, has announced that they will be streaming the service on their website, allowing fans from all over to pay their respects.
John and Matthew Gaudreau were struck and killed by a suspected drunken driver while riding their bicycles in their home state of New Jersey. The incident occurred on the eve of their sister Katie’s wedding, adding an extra layer of heartbreak to an already devastating situation. The driver, Sean M. Higgins, is currently in jail awaiting his next court appearance. Higgins, 43, is facing charges of two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, possession of an open container, and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle.
Attorneys Matthew Portella and Richard Klineburger III have been hired to represent Higgins, acknowledging the complexity and emotional weight of the case. In a statement, they expressed the gravity of the situation and emphasized that it is too early in the legal process to make any out-of-court statements. The postponement of Higgins’ pretrial hearing to September 13 will allow both the prosecution and defense more time to prepare for the upcoming proceedings.
The tragic loss of the Gaudreau brothers has sent shockwaves through the hockey community, from Columbus to South Jersey to Boston College, where the siblings played college hockey. The outpouring of support and tributes from fans, current and former players, and officials has been overwhelming. The entire Columbus Blue Jackets team, led by general manager Don Waddell, will be in attendance at the funeral, along with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman.
The Rev. Eric J. Banecker of St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church has announced that school will be closed on Monday to accommodate the large number of mourners expected to attend the funeral. The service is expected to be a somber yet celebratory occasion, honoring the lives and legacies of John and Matthew Gaudreau. The community has come together to offer support and comfort to the Gaudreau family during this difficult time.
Tributes and Memorials
In the wake of the tragic accident that claimed the lives of John and Matthew Gaudreau, tributes and memorials have been pouring in from all corners of the hockey world. Candlelight vigils were held in Columbus, Ohio, and Calgary, Alberta, to honor the memory of the beloved brothers. Fans gathered outside the Blue Jackets’ arena for a 13-minute, 21-second silent remembrance, while a slideshow of photos chronicling the lives of John and Matthew played in the background.
Meanwhile, in Calgary, thousands of fans gathered outside the Flames’ arena, chanting “Johnny! Johnny!” in a moving display of solidarity and support. The overwhelming response from the hockey community has been a testament to the impact that John and Matthew Gaudreau had on those around them. Lewis Gross, the brothers’ longtime agent, took to social media to express his deep sorrow and gratitude for the time he spent representing them.
Remembering John and Matthew
The legacy of John and Matthew Gaudreau will continue to live on through the John & Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, established in their honor. Contributions can be made care of Lewis Gross at Sports Professional Management in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, with all proceeds going towards causes that were near and dear to the hearts of the Gaudreau brothers. The foundation serves as a lasting tribute to their memory and the impact they had on everyone they encountered.
USA Hockey executive director Pat Kelleher paid tribute to the Gaudreau family during remarks about the 2024 class of the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame. Kevin Stevens, one of the inductees, shared his heartfelt condolences, acknowledging the pain and grief that the family is experiencing. The hockey world has come together in solidarity to honor the lives of John and Matthew Gaudreau and offer support to their loved ones during this difficult time.
As the city of Philadelphia prepares to say goodbye to John and Matthew Gaudreau, the outpouring of love and support from the hockey community serves as a reminder of the impact that these two young men had on the world around them. Their memory will live on through the foundation established in their honor, ensuring that their legacy continues to inspire and uplift others for years to come. The funeral service on Monday will be a time for reflection, remembrance, and celebration of the lives of John and Matthew Gaudreau, two brothers who touched the hearts of so many.