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Major updates emerge regarding 911 emergency call in Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau case

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Daniel Lucente
October 18, 2024  (11:30)
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The crash site where the Gaudreau brothers were murdered has tribute items
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As the weeks go on since the tragic deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, new updates regarding the 911 emergency call have been revealed.

The sad demise of Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew, at the hands of a drunk driver striking and murdering them in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, is still fresh on many hearts. This incident occurred on August 29 as the brothers were riding bikes on the eve of their sister's wedding, where both were to stand as groomsmen. This will be an inhumane loss not only within the family but also within the hockey fraternity.

Both the memories of Johnny and Matthew were able to be accorded by the Blue Jackets during the home opener against the Florida Panthers. In memory of the late Johnny Gaudreau, a banner was raised, while all players from both teams wore his jerseys during pre-game warm-ups. It was then that Nationwide Arena became a site of mourning and remembrance for so many; there was even a memorial set up in his name.

One of the more poignant moments came via a video tribute, where Johnny's wife Meredith encouraged fans to take life lessons from her late husband rather than be saddened. The Blue Jackets opened the faceoff by leaving Gaudreau's left wing position open, a symbolic gesture to show just how big of a hole his absence would leave. Both teams allowed 13 seconds to tick away without any action on either part of the ice, and the crowd picked up in unison: "Johnny Hockey. Johnny Hockey," just to remember him.

It was just one of those moments, really, that brought alive the huge loss but reminded them of the unity of spirit and love left behind by Johnny and his brother. Meanwhile, new details emerged from the investigation into the crash. There have been reports that 911 calls from that night have emerged and are set to be made available to the public, however, the Gaudreau family is hoping to stop those calls from being released. Sean Higgins, the driver, was speeding and under the influence of alcohol during the accident. His blood alcohol was slightly over the limit, and testimony from witnesses indicated he was traveling faster than the posted speed limit. Yet Higgins continued to assert that he never saw the bicycles before striking the brothers.

These results of the 911 calls, along with the continued prosecution, are scheduled for November 1, which has continued to cloud the family's grief as they wait for clarity and to see how things will be moving forward. Representatives for the estate of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau have filed motions seeking to keep a host of records, including 911 calls from the scene, out of view. Representatives for the estate have filed motions seeking to block the release of crash reports and autopsy details for the protection of the family's privacy during this hurtful time. But while the court has ruled these records may be released, local authorities insinuate they may remain sealed, a ruling welcomed by this bereaved family. Most of all, the Gaudreau family has earned the right to grieve in peace, and if they wish these records to stay private, that should be allowed.

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Major updates emerge regarding 911 emergency call in Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau case

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