Johnny Gaudreau (via Getty Images)
Hockey is one of the most challenging sports to make it in, and as many sports fans know, making the NHL is one of the most daunting tasks in professional sports. Unfortunately, today, we are mourning the loss of Johnny Gaudreau, one of the many players who did so.
In an unfortunate development on Friday morning, NHL superstar Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were hit and killed by a presumed drunk driver while riding their bikes, just days ahead of their sister’s wedding.
Now, more news is coming out about the tragic incident, and while many fans still mourn the loss of the Blue Jackets star, the original reporter who broke the story of Gaudreau’s passing has been fired from his job.
FlyersNittyGritty fired reporter Dylan Robillard after receiving tons of negative backlash for a story he covered concerning the death of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew after it seemed as though there was no reliable source.
After this unthinkable tragedy, we have parted ways with Dylan Robillard. It’s what’s best for both parties moving forward https://t.co/C2tzU685oB
— FlyersNittyGritty (@FlyersKnitty) August 30, 2024
Here’s the original report in question:
This is inexcusable from a “journalist” @DylanRobillard_
1. “Not 100% sure” should have stopped there. You do NOT report on something like this without full confirmation.
2. Hashtagging and therefore spreading info of this nature that ISN’T CONFIRMED is appalling. pic.twitter.com/JlOo7wmM3a
— Erin Grugan (@eringrugan) August 30, 2024
Dylan Robillard Fired After Breaking The Johnny Gaudreau Story
Not only was Robillard fired from his job, but he is also reportedly receiving death threats from many people online, and so is his fiancee after he had to come out and post to X asking fans to stop.
You can be upset at me or mad, whatever. But I would appreciate it if you did not message my fiancée and me with death threats and hateful messages, thank you.
— Dylan H. Robillard (@DylanRobillard_) August 30, 2024
I’m sorry. I’ve been logged off as I’ve been at work. It was not my place. I understand that. I’d like to apologize to everyone who has supported me, the Gaudreau family and anyone I hurt.
I will be taking the time to learn more about proper etiquette and professionalism in…
— Dylan H. Robillard (@DylanRobillard_) August 30, 2024
While many fans are mourning the NHL star’s passing, it’s important to remember that we are all human, and even though we may disagree with what Robillard did, death threats shouldn’t be a part of the equation.
Many tributes can be seen across NHL-affiliated accounts on X and Instagram and in front of the Saddledome and Nationwide Arena. Donations can also be made to a GoFundMe to support Matt’s wife and soon-to-be baby.
