Matthew Gaudreau's mother speaks out as he welcomes first son from beyond the grave
Topics: Crime, News, Parenting, US News, Social Media
Rhianna Benson
Featured Image Credit: Madeline Gaudreau/Instagram
Topics: Crime, News, Parenting, US News, Social Media
The mother of Matthew Gaudreau - who tragically died in a bicycle accident four months ago - has issued an emotional statement today, just days after the late 29-year-old's wife gave birth to their son.
Madeline Gaudreau announced on social media that she'd welcomed a baby boy on 29 December, issuing a tribute to her late husband in the caption.
Prior to his shock passing, Matthew had been a professional ice hockey player, with fatherhood just ahead of him.
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His wife Madeline was five months pregnant back in August of this year, and his sister was set to get married.
Tragically, however, just one day prior to the nuptials, Matthew and his 31-year-old brother Johnny became embroiled in a devastating collision, allegedly involving a drunk driver.
The brothers - who were riding bicycles at the time - were both killed.
Four months to the day of their deaths, however, and Madeline this week welcomed a beautiful baby boy.
Sharing the news on Instagram, she told new followers that she'd decided to name her son Tripp Matthew, after the father he'll sadly never meet - an idea she first announced at his eulogy back in September.
In the caption of a photo which saw her holding the infant's tiny hand, as well as a tiny sign which read, 'He's here', Madeline wrote: "Tripp Matthew - Mommy & Daddy’s world."
Following the news, Matthew's mother Jane has since spoken out, claiming she couldn't be happier to have a new addition to the family despite the bittersweet circumstances.
Taking to the comments of Madeline's sweet snap, she said on behalf of herself and her husband: "Mom-Mom & Pop-Pop’s hearts are overflowing with love for you, Tripp Matthew."
Jane went on to pen: "We are so incredibly proud of you and your mommy and I know your Daddy is too!"
At the his eulogy, Madeline recalled how excited Matthew had been about the prospect of becoming a dad.
"The moment we found out about our son, Tripp, it consumed his every day," she told attendees at the time.
"He was downloading apps, ordering books, finding the best diaper brands. Making sure I had the best vitamins and asking for tips from John."
Reflecting on her own heartache, Madeline admitted: "This last week has felt like a nightmare I can't wake up from.
"I feel numb, angry, sad, blessed all at once. Some days, the thought of this new reality is debilitating, but most of all, I just miss Matt."
After announcing the news of Tripp's birth, however, thousands of other tributes to Matthew came pouring in, telling Madeline how proud he'd be of her for welcoming their baby boy.
One commented on Madeline's post: "Beautiful name. I know it has to be so sad not to share this with him… makes me cry.
"He’d [be] so proud of you! Great job mommy."
Another said: "OMG I’ve been thinking about this everyday this month and wondering when he would come. Hope you and baby boy are healing!"
A third added: "Congratulations, enjoy all the newborn snuggles. So happy he’s here safe. You now have a part of Matthew with you. Thinking of you both."
In the months following the accident, the driver responsible for Matthew and Johnny's deaths - 44-year-old Sean M. Higgins - was indicted on multiple charges.
On 11 December, documents obtained by PEOPLE from the Salem County court revealed that Higgins had been charged with second-degree reckless vehicular homicide and first-degree aggravated manslaughter.
He was also charged with fourth-degree tampering with physical evidence and second-degree leaving the scene of a fatal accident.