NJ Morgue Worker Fired for Leaking Details About NHL’s Johnny Gaudreau and His Brother Matthew’s Death to Group Chat
New Jersey Morgue Worker Fired for Leaking Details About NHL’s Johnny Gaudreau and His Brother Matthew’s Death
In a disturbing breach of privacy and professional ethics, a morgue worker in New Jersey was fired after leaking confidential details about the tragic deaths of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau. The incident has raised serious questions about the handling of sensitive information within medical examiner offices and the consequences of such violations.
The Gloucester County Medical Examiner’s Office employed Connor McGlynn as a morgue assistant. In August 2024, shortly after Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were fatally struck by a suspected drunk driver, McGlynn shared private notes containing personal and sensitive information about the brothers’ deaths with his hockey teammates via a group chat. This unauthorized disclosure included birth dates, home addresses, crash specifics, and even the responding trooper’s cellphone number.
Details of the Leak and Its Fallout
The leaked photo of McGlynn’s notes quickly spread beyond the intended recipients. A member of the group chat posted the image on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit without McGlynn’s knowledge. The public exposure of such private information caused outrage and distress among the Gaudreau family and the wider community.
Following the leak, McGlynn was terminated from his position on September 23, 2024. However, he challenged the dismissal, prompting a hearing by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. On February 25, 2026, the commission voted 3-2 to uphold his firing. The ruling highlighted that McGlynn had no valid explanation for his actions other than acting out of emotional disbelief.
The Tragic Incident Involving Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau
Johnny Gaudreau, a celebrated NHL forward, and his brother Matthew were tragically killed on August 29, 2024, in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The brothers were riding their bikes single-file on the shoulder of a road when Sean Higgins, a 45-year-old man, allegedly struck them while driving under the influence.
Prosecutors revealed that Higgins’ blood alcohol content was .087, just above New Jersey’s legal limit of .08. Higgins reportedly admitted to consuming five or six alcoholic drinks before the crash. The incident has been classified as reckless vehicular homicide and aggravated manslaughter, among other charges. Higgins has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial, with a potential sentence of up to 70 years if convicted.
The Gaudreau brothers were in town for their sister’s wedding, scheduled for the following day, making the tragedy even more heartbreaking. Both Johnny and Matthew were married fathers, adding to the profound loss felt by their family and fans.
Legal and Ethical Implications of the Leak
The unauthorized sharing of confidential information by a morgue worker raises critical concerns about privacy, professional responsibility, and the security of sensitive data within medical examiner offices. Such breaches can compromise investigations, violate the rights of victims and families, and erode public trust.
The New Jersey Civil Service Commission’s decision to uphold McGlynn’s termination sends a strong message about the seriousness of maintaining confidentiality in such roles. It also underscores the need for stricter protocols and training to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Community and Family Reactions
The Gaudreau family expressed deep gratitude toward USA Hockey for their support and the invitation to the Olympics, describing it as “a gift we didn’t know we needed” during this difficult time. The family’s response highlights the importance of community solidarity in the face of tragedy.
Meanwhile, the public reaction to the leak was overwhelmingly negative, with many condemning the breach of privacy and the disrespect shown to the victims and their loved ones.
Conclusion
The firing of the New Jersey morgue worker for leaking details about NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew’s death serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of confidentiality and professionalism in sensitive roles. This incident not only impacted the Gaudreau family but also raised broader questions about data security and ethical conduct in medical examiner offices.
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