Matthew Gaudreau's wife Madeline gives birth to baby months after husband’s tragic death
Matthew Gaudreau's wife has given birth to their baby, just months after a tragic incident led to his death.
Four months to the day after ice hockey player Matthew Gaudreau, 29, tragically died in a bicycle accident, his wife Madeline gave birth to their son.
The tragic accident happened in late August, the day before his sister's wedding.
His 31-year-old brother Johnny Gaudreau also passed away during the incident, which allegedly involved a drunk driver.
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Madeline Gaudreau gave birth to a baby boy, who she named Tripp, on December 29, and announced the birth with a photo of her holding his hand in hospital.
She captioned the post: "Tripp Matthew, mummy and daddy's world."
People in the comments wished the two well, reminding the new mum that her baby was a piece of her late husband on earth.
One said: "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."
A man called Sean Higgins, from New Jersey, was arrested by officers at the scene and has since been indicted with 'two counts of second-degree reckless death by auto, two counts of first-degree aggravated manslaughter (extreme indifference), fourth-degree tampering with physical evidence, and second-degree knowingly leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident resulting in death,' according to FOX 28.
Documents allege that the 43-year-old had drank several beers before getting behind the wheel of the vehicle.
At her husband's eulogy, Madeline opened up about how excited Matthew was to become a dad.
She said: "The moment we found out about our son, Tripp, it consumed his every day.
"He was downloading apps, ordering books, finding the best diaper brands. Making sure I had the best vitamins and asking for tips from John."
Speaking of her own grief, she added: "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."
Despite losing their dear relatives, the Gaudreau family has still kept a relatively public profile since Johnny and Matthew's deaths.
In October, Johnny's wife Meredith posted pictures from a second birthday party she threw for their daughter, Noa.
Katie Gaudreau's wedding was postponed while the family grieved their losses.
Mia Williams