A memorial for Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau will be held at their New Jersey high school on Friday, a week after they were tragically killed by an alleged drunk driver. The “Quiet Night of Remembrance” will take place at Gloucester Catholic High School in Gloucester City from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and is open to the Gloucester Catholic family and all residents of the Tri-State area.
Johnny, 31, and Matthew, 29, were struck and killed by a suspected drunk driver while biking in Salem County, NJ. The brothers, who were supposed to be groomsmen at their sister’s wedding the next day, were beloved alumni of Gloucester Catholic High School. The school expressed devastation over the sudden and heartbreaking loss of the Gaudreau brothers, emphasizing their love for the school and their roles as sons, brothers, fathers, husbands, friends, and role models.
The driver, identified as Sean Higgins, was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto for the tragic accident. Allegedly driving under the influence, Higgins attempted to pass two slow-moving vehicles when he struck the brothers on their bikes. The sisters’ wedding was postponed in light of the tragedy, and thousands of fans have attended vigils in the US and Canada to honor the Gaudreau brothers.
Johnny Gaudreau played for the Calgary Flames for nine seasons before signing a seven-year deal with the Blue Jackets in July 2022. Meanwhile, Matthew Gaudreau had a professional career playing for the New York Islanders’ affiliate team. The memorial at Gloucester Catholic High School serves as a way for the community to come together and pay tribute to the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.