NHL legend Wayne Gretzky was devastated by the ‘senseless tragedy’ that is the death of Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau on Thursday night.
The brothers, who both played professional hockey, were killed in a horrific bike crash in New Jersey on the evening of their sister Katie’s wedding.
On Saturday morning, Gretzky released a statement on his social media, grieving the loss of the siblings.
‘Janet, myself, and our entire family are devastated at this senseless tragedy,’ the statement read. ‘We are sending our love, thoughts, and prayers to the Gaurdreau family.
‘We lost two great young men who were loved and a huge presence both on and off the ice. Johnny and Matthew, you will always be remembered and missed.’
Wayne Gretzky released a statement grieving the death of Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau
Matthew and brother Johnny were struck by a vehicle while cycling in New Jersey on Thursday
The Gaudreau brothers were believed to have been cycling when the fatal crash occurred just before 8:30pm in Oldmans Township, Salem County.
The two were struck and killed by a vehicle driven by 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins of Woodstown, New Jersey – who is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.
Officers also allege that Higgins showed signs of being drunk and admitted to drinking ‘prior to and while operating his vehicle’.
While reeking of alcohol, Higgins is said to have told them that ‘his consumption of alcoholic beverages contributed to his impatience and reckless driving.’
The vehicle was driven by 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins of Woodstown, New Jersey
A graphic displays the crash that killed Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau on Thursday night
Matthew leaves his wife Madeline, who is five months pregnant with a due date of December 31 for the couple’s son, Tripp, per PEOPLE.
Meanwhile, Johnny and his wife Meredith welcomed their second child in February.
A GoFundMe campaign dedicated to helping their family financially after their tragic passing has raised over $300k less than 48 hours after.
***
Read more at DailyMail.co.uk