“Devastated by the loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau” - Mike Trout sends heartfelt sympathies to NHL star’s family
The sporting world, including Mike Trout, is in mourning after the tragic deaths of Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau. The brothers were fatally struck by an alleged drunk driver on Thursday while riding bikes in New Jersey. The Columbus Blue Jackets star and his younger brother were back home and preparing for their sister's wedding.
This news has left fans, colleagues and family in mourning. New Jersey native Mike Trout took to social media to express his condolences.
"Devastated by the loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau," Trout posted on social media
The Columbus Blue Jackets superstar and his brother grew up in Salem County, just over 20 miles from where Mike Trout grew up in Vineland, New Jersey. The All-Star leaves behind his wife Meredith and their two young children, Noa and Johnny.
Many other athletes, including LeBron James, shared their condolences.
"Insane man! I instantly got so down and sad after reading the story. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Gaudreau family! May Johnny and Matthew fly high, guide/guard and bless their family/s from the heavens above." - @KingJames
Before his passing, 31-year-old Johnny played 763 NHL games with the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets. The talented forward scored 243 goals and tallied 743 career points.
Although Matthew never reached the NHL, he enjoyed a solid career with Boston College before appearing for several clubs in the AHL and ECHL. He also spent time as a coach. He recently directed Gloucester Catholic High School hockey.
Mike Trout's teammate Tyler Skaggs passed away in 2019
The Los Angeles Angels superstar has enjoyed an incredible MLB career. However, it has not come without tragedy. Aside from the passing of his friends Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau, Trout mourned the loss of former teammate Tyler Skaggs on July 3, 2019.
"Mike Trout wearing Tyler Skaggs' No. 45 for the All-Star Game is so powerful" - @BaseballBros
During the team's away series against the Texas Rangers, Skaggs was found dead in a Dallas hotel room. According to the toxicology reports, Skaggs ingested a lethal combination of alcohol, fentanyl and oxycodone. Following Skaggs' passing, Mike Trout held an emotional press conference.