Matthew Gaudreau tragically lost his life while on a bike ride with his brother, Johnny, due to a suspected drunk driver incident. Matthew's wife, Madeline Gaudreau, is currently pregnant with their first child, named Tripp, with a due date in December. In response to the heartbreaking situation, Madeline's sister, Holland Korbitz, initiated a GoFundMe campaign to provide financial support for Madeline and Tripp during this challenging time.
The fundraising effort has garnered over $150,000 as of Friday evening, showcasing the outpouring of support for the grieving family. Additionally, a baby registry for Tripp has been set up on Babylist to assist Madeline in preparing for the arrival of her baby.
The devastating loss of Matthew and Johnny has deeply impacted their family, with their sister Katie canceling her wedding following the tragedy. The brothers were struck by a Jeep while biking in Salem County, N.J., resulting in their untimely deaths. The driver, Sean M. Higgins, has been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide after admitting to consuming alcohol before driving.
Matthew, who married Madeline in 2021, leaves behind a legacy of love and family. Johnny, a former professional hockey player, is survived by his wife, Meredith Gaudreau, and their two young children, Noa and Johnny. The families involved have expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and have requested privacy as they navigate this period of grief.
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the devastating consequences of impaired driving. The community's response in rallying around Madeline and Tripp showcases the power of compassion and solidarity during times of immense loss and sorrow.