The hockey world continues to remember Johnny Gaudreau for his remarkable career, but for his family, the loss remains deeply personal. As another anniversary approaches, the grief surrounding Johnny and his brother Matthew has not eased, even as legal proceedings continue in New Jersey.
Their parents remain focused on preserving their sons' legacy while navigating an emotional reality that has not changed.
Nearly two years after Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were killed in an accident in New Jersey involving a driver who allegedly struck them while they were riding bicycles, their father, Guy Gaudreau, says forgiveness remains out of reach.
Speaking with TMZ , he reflected on the lasting impact the tragedy has had on his family while the criminal case against Sean M. Higgins continues to move through the court system.
Guy spoke candidly about the void left by the loss of his sons, saying, "Everyone's life goes on but mine. I will never get my sons back."
He also admitted that he does not know if he will ever be able to forgive the man accused in the case. Beyond that, Guy revealed he is still struggling with his faith, saying he has also been unable to forgive God for taking his sons.
The interview comes as the family prepares for the second anniversary of the brothers' deaths on August 29. Although Guy said there are no specific plans for the date, he and his wife, Jane, remain committed to honoring Johnny and Matthew through charitable efforts.
Among these projects are fundraising initiatives for a memorial playground in their home state and continued support of USA Hockey's special-needs programs.
The legal proceedings, however, remain unresolved.
Higgins has pleaded not guilty to charges that include aggravated manslaughter and reckless vehicular homicide. Because the case is still in the pre-trial phase, the allegations have not been tested before a jury just yet.
The next hearing is scheduled for September 11, after the defense requested additional time to complete independent forensic testing.
One of the central disputes involves Higgins' blood-alcohol concentration. Prosecutors allege testing showed a BAC of 0.087%, above New Jersey's legal limit, while the defense argues independent analysis placed it at 0.075% and has challenged the testing method used by investigators.
Earlier this year, a judge denied the defense's attempt to dismiss the indictment, ruling that the disputed evidence should ultimately be weighed by a jury. Higgins also rejected a plea agreement that reportedly carried a 35-year prison sentence. If convicted on all counts at trial, he could face a maximum sentence of up to 70 years in prison.
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While the legal process continues, Guy Gaudreau's comments show that the emotional impact on his family extends far beyond the courtroom.
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network .
