Additional Coverage:
- Johnny Gaudreau’s wife Meredith announces birth of their third baby — seven months after his death (the-independent.com)
Seven months after the tragic deaths of her husband and brother-in-law, Meredith Gaudreau has given birth to a son, Carter Michael Gaudreau. Mrs.
Gaudreau shared the joyous news on her Instagram account on Monday, posting photos of herself with the newborn and her two other children, three-year-old Noa and 14-month-old Johnny Jr. Carter Michael, born April 1st, weighed 8 pounds 3 ounces and measured 20.5 inches – the same height and weight as his father at birth, and, according to his mother, bears a striking resemblance to him.
In August 2024, Johnny Gaudreau, a forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his brother Matthew were killed when a drunk driver struck them while they were cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The driver, Sean Higgins, is facing multiple charges, including two counts of death by auto, and has pleaded not guilty. Witnesses reported seeing Higgins speeding and driving erratically before the collision.
At the time of his death, Johnny Gaudreau was about to begin his third season with the Blue Jackets and his 12th in the NHL. Known affectionately as “Johnny Hockey,” he was a seven-time All-Star and a beloved figure both on and off the ice. Following the accident, the Columbus Blue Jackets and NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman issued statements expressing their condolences and honoring Gaudreau’s legacy.