In the wake of the tragic deaths of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, a GoFundMe campaign established for Matthew's widow, Madeline, has surpassed its goal of $30,000, with over 5,000 supporters contributing more than $365,000 by Saturday afternoon.
The Gaudreau family has received an outpouring of support following the tragic deaths of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew in a car accident. A GoFundMe campaign launched for Matthew's widow, Madeline, who is expecting their first child in late December, has exceeded its initial goal of $30,000, with over 5,000 supporters contributing more than $365,000 by Saturday afternoon.
The fundraiser description stated, "In this unimaginably difficult time, we are coming together to support Matthew's wife, Madeline and their growing baby Tripp, and help alleviate some of the financial burdens they now face."
GoFundMe Page for Family of NHL Player Johnny Gaudreau Surpasses $300,000 Goal
The donations will be used to cover Matthew's funeral expenses and provide support for baby Tripp. Numerous NHL players' names appear on the donation list, with many expressing their support by including Johnny Gaudreau's jersey number, 13, which he wore with the Columbus Blue Jackets and Calgary Flames.
The Gaudreau brothers were cycling in New Jersey on Thursday night, the eve of their sister's wedding, when they were struck from behind by 43-year-old Sean Higgins, who was allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol. Higgins was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, possession of an open container, and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle.
GoFundMe Page for Family of NHL Player Johnny Gaudreau Surpasses $300,000 Goal
The sports community mourned the deaths of the Gaudreau brothers on Friday, with countless tributes pouring in. While they were remembered for their talent on the ice, many who knew them or had met them shared stories of their kindness. Several sporting events held moments of silence in their honor.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
GoFundMe Page for Family of NHL Player Johnny Gaudreau Surpasses $300,000 Goal
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* The GoFundMe campaign for Madeline Gaudreau can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/matthew-gaudeau-memorial-tripp-fund
* Johnny Gaudreau was a left winger who played for the Calgary Flames and the Columbus Blue Jackets.
* Matthew Gaudreau was a defenseman who played for the Boston College Eagles and the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.
* Sean Higgins, the driver who struck the Gaudreau brothers, is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday.
