Now that several days have passed since the tragedy that took the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, their family have shared a heartwarming update.

In a heartwarming message, Jim Gaudreau, an uncle of the brothers, took to his Facebook to say that the family is overwhelmed and deeply grateful for the kindness they’ve received. People have been paying tribute to Johnny and Matthew in many ways, from setting up memorials near the crash site and at the Hollydell Ice Arena, where the brothers initially learned how to skate, to leaving hockey sticks outside homes as a tribute.

The fatal accident occurred last Thursday evening when Sean Higgins, 43, of Oldsman Township, New Jersey, attempted to overtake another vehicle on County Route 551. He struck the brothers, both described as being on bicycles, riding alongside one another on the shoulder side of the road. Both brothers were pronounced dead at the scene. Police reports say Higgins was intoxicated after having admitted to consuming several beers prior to the crash. He has been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide.

This tragedy took place at a very inopportune time, the day before their sister Katie’s wedding. In a touching tribute on social media, Katie remembered her brothers:

“To know these two was to love these two.”

Locally and nationally, the hockey world knew Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. Johnny, also known as “Johnny Hockey”, was a seven-time NHL All-Star, while Matthew had a professional career in both the ECHL and AHL. Both brothers are deeply missed within the sports community, with tributes ranging from fans and teams to celebrities across the country.

Stay strong Gaudreau family, the hockey world is with you every step along the bumpy way.