The Calgary Flames honored Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau with a moving tribute at the Scotiabank Saddledome last week during their game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. They also unveiled a special memorial bench in honor of the late NHL players who died in a tragic road accident in late August.
The entire Gaudreau family travelled to Calgary to attend the special game. Following the tribute week, Johnny and Matthew’s mother, Jane Gaudreau, shared an emotional Instagram post on Tuesday. She posted a carousel of pictures with special moments from their time in Calgary, as well as a throwback picture of her sons. In the caption, she wrote:
“Thank you to the Calgary Flames Organization, the players, their families and the fans of Calgary for everything you have done for our family. Being back in Calgary and reconnecting with friends and our favorite places was truly special.”
“The Flames Organization and the incredible fans of Calgary have been an important part of our lives for over 13 unforgettable years and coming back was very therapeutic and healing for us. The friendships we’ve built here have become like family, and we will forever cherish the memories we’ve created together,” Jane Gaudreau added.
She expressed gratitude to the Flames organization, players, their families and the fans for their heartwarming support.
“Thank you for the beautiful tribute. I know the boys were looking down, smiling, and loving it as much as we all did. We look forward to seeing you all again. ❤️”
Jane shared pictures of the Gaudreau family, including one of Johnny’s parents, his wife Meredith, and his sisters Kristen and Katie participating in a ceremonial puck-drop before the special game. She shared adorable pictures of Johnny’s children spending time in Calgary and an image of the special benches the Calgary Flames unveiled. The benches are made from repurposed hockey sticks that fans left at Johnny Gaudreau’s memorial to honor the late NHL players.
Police release body cam footage of alleged drunk driver’s arrest in Johnny Gaudreau’s accident
On Aug. 29, Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were tragically killed after being struck by a vehicle while cycling in Salem County, New Jersey. Earlier this week, police released body camera footage and 911 calls from the scene following the crash.
The footage shows the driver, 44-year-old Sean M. Higgins, admitting to consuming several beers earlier in the day. However, he claimed to have stopped drinking an hour before the crash. The footage also reveals his attempts to perform sobriety tests after being questioned by police.
Higgins, a major in the New Jersey Army National Guard, reportedly had a blood alcohol level above the legal limit of 0.08%. He has been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide and other offenses related to reckless driving and DUI. Higgins could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.