Tragedy and Triumph: Widows of NHL Stars Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau Speak Out Nearly a Year After Devastating Crash That Shook Hockey

Nearly a year has passed since NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau were tragically killed in a crash caused by an alleged drunk driver in New Jersey. Their widows, Meredith and Madeline Gaudreau, have shown remarkable strength as they navigate their grief, drawing support from family and community.

In a heartfelt interview on ABC's Good Morning America, aired on what would have been Johnny's 32nd birthday, they opened up about their loss and the hope sustaining them.

New Life Amid Tragedy: Births and Family Support

Both women were pregnant when the accident occurred on 29 August 2024. Meredith was expecting their third child, Carter, who was born in April 2025, while Madeline gave birth to their son Tripp in December 2024.

Speaking about the pain of losing their husbands so suddenly, Madeline said: 'There's no healing when you didn't get a goodbye.'

Meredith recalled their last moments together: 'He kissed all of us goodbye. Um, just in the driveway at his parents house and that was the last time I saw him.' She vowed, 'I just said to John that I would take care of our kids and I thanked him for such a great life.'

Family Bond: A Sister's Wedding and Shared Strength

The widows have leaned on one another, with support from family playing a crucial role. Their sister Katie, whose wedding was postponed following the tragedy, married in July 2025, honoring Johnny and Matthew throughout the ceremony.

Meredith and Madeline were both bridesmaids, joined by their young children, symbolizing the family's ongoing bond.

The Driver's Case: Legal Proceedings and Court Updates

The man charged with causing the fatal crash, Sean Higgins, 44, is facing serious charges including aggravated vehicular homicide and involuntary manslaughter.

According to court and police documents, Higgins had a blood-alcohol level of 0.087 at the time of the crash, which happened as he aggressively passed two vehicles on a narrow road while Johnny and Matthew were cycling.

Witnesses described Higgins' reckless behaviour: 'Troopers found Higgins about a quarter-mile away from the crash site... Higgins admitted to drinking beer before and while driving.'

Higgins has rejected a plea deal that would have resulted in a 35-year prison sentence and faces upcoming court hearings focussed on testimonies from State Police troopers and suppression motions filed by defense attorneys.

Details released in April 2025 revealed the impact sequence—the Jeep hitting Matthew first, who struck Johnny, with Higgins' vehicle coasting for approximately 1,500 feet after stalling.

Honoring Johnny and Matthew: Tributes and Legacy

The Gaudreau family and the hockey community have rallied to commemorate Johnny and Matthew's lives. Meredith and Madeline founded the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation to support youth hockey and families affected by tragedy. The foundation epitomizes the brothers' passion and spirit.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have paid numerous tributes: retiring Johnny's No. 13 jersey with a banner raised at Nationwide Arena, leaving his left wing spot vacant during opening faceoffs, and donning jerseys reflecting the Gaudreaus' amateur and professional careers during the 2025 NHL Stadium Series. Meredith even represented the family by announcing the Blue Jackets' draft picks at the 2025 NHL Draft.

A Story of Love and Resilience

Despite the unbearable pain, the Gaudreau family remains united in love and resilience. As Meredith reflected on Good Morning America: 'I just said to John that I would take care of our kids and I thanked him for such a great life.'

Their story, marked by tragedy and healing, continues to inspire those who remember Johnny and Matthew not only as athletes but as beloved family men and community figures.