Katie Gaudreau recalls the 'split second' she learned devastating news of Johnny and Matthew's death
OLDMANS TOWNSHIP, NEW JERSEY: Katie Gaudreau, who was preparing for what should have been the happiest day of her life, is now reflecting on a devastating tragedy, as reported by People.
Just one day before her wedding, Katie's two brothers, Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, were tragically killed in a bike accident. Now, as she looks back, she remembers the "split second" when her life was changed forever.
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Katie Gaudreau reflects on learning about Johnny and Matthew's death
The heartbreaking incident occurred on Thursday, August 29, when Johnny Gaudreau, a 31-year-old professional hockey player for the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his 29-year-old brother Matthew Gaudreau were cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey.
The brothers were in town to serve as groomsmen at Katie’s wedding, which was scheduled for August 30.
The fatal accident happened when a driver, Sean M Higgins, 43, attempted to pass another vehicle and struck Johnny and Matthew. According to the New Jersey State Police, Higgins was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.
Following the accident, he was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
The legal proceedings in the case have been moving forward. Higgins' detention hearing, originally set for September 5, has been postponed to September 13, allowing both the prosecution and defense additional time to file legal documents and exhibits.
While the legal case continues to unfold, Katie is left grappling with the immense grief of losing her two brothers just hours before her wedding day.
In an emotional Instagram post, Katie reflected on the moment she received the life-changing news. "That day. Right in the middle of getting ready for the best day of my life, the unthinkable happens that will change my life forever," she wrote.
Her heartfelt post was accompanied by childhood photos of herself with Johnny and Matthew. In her reflection, she noted how, just moments before, her biggest concern had been forgetting to practice her dance moves with her fiance.
"I remember a week ago being in the hotel sitting with family and texting [my fiancé] Devin [Joyce] about how we forgot to practice our dip," Katie shared.
The shift from the trivial concerns of wedding planning to the overwhelming grief of losing her brothers in an instant is something Katie will never forget.
"To think that was our biggest worry at this moment when in just a split second, and a phone call later, our lives would forever change. Remember to tell your people you love them. I would do anything to tell my big brothers I love them one more time," she wrote.
Katie Gaudreau's recent reflection sparks a flurry of reactions online
Katie Gaudreau's recent reflection about the deaths of her brothers Johnny and Matthew sparked a flurry of reactions online.
On Instagram, one person remarked, "So brokenhearted for all of you. sending you strength. Each day we are given is a gift." Another said, "No words feel like enough, but I’m so truly sorry, Katie. The world is wrapping our collective arms around your family."
"So very sorry. It doesn’t seem enough. Know that strangers are praying for and thinking of all of you," wrote one person. Another added, "The extreme love between all in your family is seen in every photo that is shared."
One individual wrote, "Brokenhearted for all of you." Another pointed out, "Katie thinking about you constantly. We are so so sorry."
One netizen remarked, "Can’t stop thinking about all of you .. this is nothing anyone deserves to go through." Another added, "So heartbroken for your family keeping you in my prayers."
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.
