Johnny Gaudreau and brother Matthew’s parents faced heartbreaking medical emergency after their deaths in New Jersey

Former NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his younger brother Matthew Gaudreau, 29, tragically lost their lives in a cycling accident near Oldmans Township, New Jersey, in August 2024.

Their parents, Guy and Jane Gaudreau, were so shaken by the sudden loss that both were hospitalized on the same day. According to The Athletic, Guy was admitted for high blood pressure and heart problems, while Jane went into a catatonic-like state after hearing the news. Nurses later allowed Jane to join Guy in his hospital bed as they grieved together.

Guy and Jane Gaudreau were hospitalized the day Johnny and Matthew died

On the day of the accident in August 2024, Guy and Jane Gaudreau were taken to the hospital shortly after learning that their sons Johnny and Matthew had been killed by an alleged drunk driver.

Reports say Guy was under observation for elevated blood pressure and heart rate, while Jane became completely unresponsive.

The two were placed in separate rooms, but staff later allowed Jane to crawl into Guy’s bed so they could be together. They stayed in the hospital for two nights before being released. The tragedy struck just days before the Gaudreau family was preparing for Katie Gaudreau’s wedding, which was postponed following the crash.

Katie eventually married her fiancé Devin Joyce in July 2025, with a ceremony in Gloucester City, New Jersey, that included emotional tributes to her late brothers.

Meredith and Madeline Gaudreau share grief and announce foundation

At the time of the crash, both Johnny and Matthew’s wives were expecting children. Madeline Gaudreau gave birth to her first son, Tripp Matthew, in December 2024, while Meredith Gaudreau welcomed Carter Michael in April 2025. Meredith and Johnny already shared two children, Noa (2022) and Johnny Jr.

(2024).Also Read: Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid appears destined for maximum deal as analyst reveals extension proofIn June 2025, Meredith wrote an emotional letter in The Players’ Tribune, sharing how she and Madeline were left heartbroken. “I was in shock [when I found out]. I was keeled over for days sick to my stomach… The only person who can relate to me is my own sister-in-law,” she wrote. She described the painful shift from helping with her sister-in-law’s wedding plans to planning two funerals within hours.On August 13, 2025, which would have been Johnny’s 32nd birthday, Meredith and Madeline launched the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation. The charity aims to support the hockey community and causes close to the brothers’ hearts. The Foundation stated: “John and Matty made a tremendous and everlasting impact on everyone who knew them… The purpose is to continue giving back and make a positive impact in their honor.”Meanwhile, the legal case against Sean Higgins, the man accused of being the drunk driver, is moving forward. In December 2024, he was indicted on multiple charges, including aggravated manslaughter and reckless vehicular homicide. Ahead of his September 2025 trial, Higgins pleaded not guilty and rejected a plea deal of 35 years. If convicted, he could face up to 70 years in prison.