GoFundMe launched in wake of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau's death raises historic amount
OLDMANS TOWNSHIP, NEW JERSEY: The hockey world and beyond are grappling with the heart-wrenching loss of NHL superstar Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew Gaudreau, 29, who tragically passed away in a car accident.
Their untimely deaths have triggered a massive wave of generosity, culminating in an extraordinary response to a GoFundMe campaign that has surpassed all expectations, as reported by The Daily Mail.
GoFundMe launched after Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau's death raises massive amount
In the aftermath of the Gaudreau brothers' passing, the global community has come together to support their grieving family.
The GoFundMe campaign, launched by Holland Korbitz, the sister of Matthew's wife, Madeline, has become a beacon of hope during this dark time.
The fundraiser, titled 'Support Madeline and Baby Tripp After Tragedy', was created with a modest goal of $30,000. However, in just a few days, the campaign has shattered that target, raising a historic $493,000 from around 7,000 donations as of September 2.
Matthew's wife, Madeline, is currently five months pregnant, expecting their first child, a son they plan to name Tripp, with a due date of December 31.
The campaign's description poignantly captures the gravity of the situation: "We are heartbroken to share the devastating news that the Gaudreau family has experienced a tragic and unfathomable loss. On August 29, 2024, a car accident took the lives of Matthew and his brother John."
The message continues, "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. Your support will allow them the time to take off work to grieve and heal as a family."
The fatal accident that claimed the lives of the Gaudreau brothers occurred in Oldmans Township, Salem County, New Jersey, on the evening of August 29, 2024.
The brothers were believed to have been cycling when they were struck by a vehicle driven by 43-year-old Sean M Higgins of Woodstown, New Jersey. Authorities suspect that Higgins was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.
Higgins has been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide and is currently being held without bail. According to the police report, officers at the scene observed signs of intoxication and noted that Higgins admitted to drinking both before and while driving.
Witnesses reported that Higgins smelled strongly of alcohol and even acknowledged that his drinking contributed to his "impatience and reckless driving."
GoFundMe campaign's news sparks flurry of reactions online
As news of the GoFundMe campaign spread, the internet quickly erupted in a flurry of reactions.
One person remarked, "It's one of the saddest things ever. Truly heart wrenching." Another said, "Every part of this is such a sad story for all involved."
"This whole tragedy is just unreal he was a great player and his life was just beginning," wrote one person. Another added, "Such a horrific story and my greatest sympathy to the family."
One individual wrote, "Devastatingly painful. I can’t even. Thank heaven for people's generosity." Another pointed out, "There is nothing at all that can bring them back but how heartwarming and supportive people are during such a difficult time."
One netizen remarked, "So sad she’s expecting their first baby." Another added, "These kind of support from people reignites my hope in humanity."
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.
