Matthew Gaudreau's Widow Welcomes Baby After Death Of Husband, NHL Star In NJ

SALEM COUNTY, NJ — The widow of Matthew Gaudreau has welcomed a newborn baby, months after her husband and his brother, NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, were killed in a South Jersey crash.

Madeline Gaudreau announced baby Trip Matthew's arrival on Instagram.

A speeding, drunk driver struck and killed Johnny, 31, and Matthew, 29, while the brothers rode their bikes Aug. 29 in Oldmans Township, Salem County, authorities said.

Before Matthew's death, he and Madeline were preparing for their first child. Meredith Gaudreau, Johnny's widow, also revealed she was nine weeks pregnant during her eulogy at the brothers' joint funeral in early September.

Johnny was a seven-time NHL all-star who played for the Columbus Blue Jackets at the time of his death. Matthew played in the minor leagues before returning to South Jersey and coaching.

They both lived and grew up in Salem County.

Sean Higgins — the driver accused of killing Johnny and Matthew — was arrested shortly after the crash and has been jailed since.

Higgins was initially charged with two counts of second-degree death by auto. But a grand jury brought additional charges in a Dec. 11 indictment, including two counts of first-degree aggravated manslaughter.

He was also charged by indictment with second-degree leaving the scene of a fatal accident and fourth-degree tampering with physical evidence.

Higgins will next appear in Salem County Superior Court on Jan. 7 for a post-indictment arraignment.