Katie Gaudreau’s recent wedding posts have taken on a heart-wrenching significance following the sudden deaths of her brothers, Johnny and Matthew.
Johnny Gaudreau, a 31-year-old NHL star, and his 29-year-old brother Matthew lost their lives on Thursday night (August 29) while cycling in Oldmans Township, Salem County, New Jersey.
The New Jersey State Police reported that the brothers were hit by a car driven by a suspected drunk driver.
Additional details from CBS News Philadelphia mention that the brothers were cycling along County Route 551 around 8:00pm when they were struck by a jeep.
The driver, Sean M Higgins, has been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, according to PEOPLE.
Higgins allegedly admitted to police that he had consumed ‘five to six beers’ before the crash. Tragically, Johnny and Matthew died just a day before they were to serve as groomsmen at their sister’s wedding.
Katie Gaudreau and her fiancé, Devin Joyce, were scheduled to get married on Friday (August 30) at the Parish of St. Mary in Gloucester City, New Jersey, as reported by PageSix.
In light of the tragedy, the couple evidently canceled their wedding ceremony.
Three days before the tragic event, Katie had posted photos on Facebook of herself and her fiancé with the caption: “Wedding Week!! Who’s telling these 16 and 17 year olds that they are getting married in 4 days. Can’t wait to marry my best friend!!!”
The couple has been together since their school days.
Following the heartbreaking news, many fans shared their condolences in the comments of Katie’s post, expressing their sorrow and offering words of support.
In the past month, Katie had been sharing her wedding celebrations on social media, including pictures from her bachelorette party in August and her bridal shower in July.
Earlier today, the Gaudreau family issued a statement: “Last night we lost two husbands, two fathers, two sons, two brothers, two sons and brothers in law, two nephews, two cousins, two family members, two teammates, two friends but truly two amazing humans.”
“We want to let everyone know we are receiving your messages of love and support and we appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers.”
“We ask for your continued respect and privacy during this very difficult period of grief. From all our families and the bottom of our hearts (the Gaudreau, Morris, Korbitz, Venello and Joyce Families).”