In a touching display of solidarity and remembrance, the Denver Broncos honored the late Gaudreau brothers, Johnny and Matthew, on Sunday. The team paid tribute by sharing a photo of linebacker Alex Singleton donning a Calgary Flames jersey, a gesture that spoke volumes about the impact the Gaudreau brothers had on the sports community.
Singleton, a seasoned athlete at 30 years old, had spent three remarkable seasons with the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football League while Johnny Gaudreau was making waves in the NHL with the Flames. During his time with the Stampeders, Singleton showcased his talent and earned recognition as a two-time CFL All-Star, receiving the esteemed title of Most Outstanding Defensive Player in 2017. His contributions were instrumental in helping the Stampeders clinch a Grey Cup championship in 2018, solidifying his legacy in the league.
The untimely passing of the Gaudreau brothers on August 29 sent shockwaves through the sports world. Tragically, Johnny and Matthew were struck by a car while cycling in their hometown of Carneys Point, New Jersey. The siblings had been in town to celebrate their sister Katie’s upcoming wedding, a joyous occasion that was overshadowed by the devastating accident.
Authorities reported that the brothers were cycling along a road when a driver, later identified as Sean M. Higgins, attempted to overtake two vehicles and tragically collided with them from behind. The impact proved fatal, and both Johnny and Matthew were pronounced dead at the scene. Higgins, suspected of driving under the influence, faced charges of two counts of death by auto and was incarcerated at the Salem County Correctional Facility.
Following the news of the Gaudreau brothers’ tragic passing, an outpouring of condolences flooded in from all corners. The brothers’ family, former teammates, sports icons like Wayne Gretzky and LeBron James, and numerous others expressed their sorrow and paid tribute to the beloved duo.
Johnny Gaudreau, a seasoned veteran at 31, had spent nine memorable seasons with the Flames before embarking on a new chapter with the Columbus Blue Jackets in the summer of 2022. His younger brother, Matthew, was 29 at the time of his passing, leaving behind a lasting impact on those who knew him.
Renowned Pittsburgh Penguins legend and hockey hall of fame player Mario Lemieux shared his heartfelt sentiments for the Gaudreau brothers in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing the profound impact the duo had both on and off the ice. Lemieux’s words echoed the sentiment felt by many in the hockey community, underscoring the enduring legacy left behind by Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.
“The entire hockey world is here to support the Gaudreau family,” said Lemieux. “Johnny and Matthew had such an amazing impact, both on and off the ice – and far beyond hockey. We are all one big family. You will be missed, but your legacy lives on.”
