A New Chapter for the Gaudreau Family
Katie Gaudreau-Joyce, the sister of late NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, announced the birth of her first child on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. In an emotional Instagram post, Gaudreau-Joyce shared that her son, Matthew Guy Joyce, was born on Saturday, June 20.
The choice of name serves as a poignant tribute to her brother Matthew, who, alongside Johnny, was tragically killed in August 2024. The brothers were struck by a vehicle while cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, on the eve of Katie’s wedding. Following the tragedy, Katie postponed her nuptials for nearly a year, eventually marrying Devin Joyce in July 2025.
Reflecting on Grief and Resilience
The arrival of Matthew Guy Joyce brings a moment of joy to a family that has navigated profound loss over the past two years. According to reports from the New York Post and ABC11, the Gaudreau family has remained close, with Katie frequently sharing her role as an aunt to Johnny and Matthew’s children, including those born after the brothers’ deaths.
While the family celebrates this new life, the legal proceedings regarding the 2024 crash continue. The driver, Sean Higgins, has pleaded not guilty to charges of reckless vehicular homicide and aggravated manslaughter. Despite multiple court challenges, including a denied motion to dismiss the case, Higgins remains in the judicial system, facing up to 70 years in prison if convicted.