Meredith Gaudreau shares her grief over the loss of her husband Johnny and his brother Matthew in a tragic accident.
New Jersey – The ice hockey world is in shock: Johnny Gaudreau, star of the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his brother Matthew were killed in a tragic traffic accident. The accident occurred shortly before their sister Katie's wedding, when the two brothers were hit by a drunk driver. Now Meredith Gaudreau, the wife of the deceased NHL player, has spoken out publicly for the first time.
Wife of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau breaks her silence with heartbreaking message
In a heartbreaking Instagram post, Meredith expressed her endless grief and love for Johnny. “Despite the loss, I am still the luckiest girl in the world because I got to be your wife,” she wrote. “I love you so much. You were perfect. Sometimes it seemed too good to be true. I love everything about you.”
Meredith also shared another post, describing Johnny as the “absolute best dad in the world.” The couple has two children: almost two-year-old Noa and six-month-old Johnny. “He never missed a single appointment,” she wrote. “He was the best at getting the baby to sleep and Noa's favorite. I love how much she looks like him. We're going to make you proud. We love you so much, daddy.”
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau died: Tragic accident caused by drunk driver destroyed family
The accident that claimed the lives of the Gaudreau brothers occurred on a rural road in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, on Thursday evening. A 43-year-old man under the influence of alcohol attempted to pass two vehicles on the right side and struck the two brothers from behind. New Jersey State Police reported that the driver committed several traffic violations and failed a breathalyzer test. He admitted to drinking five or six beers and also consuming alcohol while driving.
The driver was arrested and charged with two counts of death by vehicle, reckless driving and consumption of alcohol in a vehicle. Katie Gaudreau's wedding, scheduled for the next day, was canceled.
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau: Wife and children mourn the loss of a deceased ice hockey star
Johnny Gaudreau, who joined the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022, leaves a huge gap in the team. The club released a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, saying: “Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but most of all a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend.”
Family and friends also expressed their deep sadness over the loss. Matthew Gaudreau, 29, was expecting their first child with his wife Madeline. Their son, Tripp, is due at the end of December. Meredith Gaudreau concluded her emotional post with the words: “You are mine forever and I can't wait to be with you again. I love you so much forever and ever.” (ck)
