The Columbus Blue Jackets organization issued a statement confirming the death of beloved forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew.
Gaudreau was just 31 years old. Unconfirmed reports indicate that the hockey star and his brother were killed while biking in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, Thursday night, according to The Columbus Dispatch.
“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy. Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend,” the team wrote in their statement issued to X, Friday.
RALEIGH, NC – NOVEMBER 26: Johnny Gaudreau #13 of the Columbus Blue Jackets celebrates a goal during the third period of the game against Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena on November 26, 2023 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Hurricanes defeat Jackets 3-2. (Photo by Jaylynn Nash/Getty Images)
Columbus Blue Jackets statement on the passing of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew. pic.twitter.com/V2aFykgKIs
— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) August 30, 2024
Police reported Gaudreau and his brother were struck by a suspected drunk driver, and were both pronounced dead at the scene, according to TMZ. Sean Higgins was arrested on two counts of death by auto and is currently in police custody, according to the outlet.
The tragedy occurred just hours before Gaudreau and his brother were supposed to be groomsmen in their sister’s wedding. Katie Gaudreau and Devin Joyce were set to be married Aug. 30, but have since called off their nuptials, according to TMZ.
Gaudreau signed with the team in July 2022 and was the Blue Jackets’ top forward. His passion for hockey and skills on the ice made him a fan-favorite, and he left a mark on the sport in a way that will never be forgotten.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew,” the team wrote.
NEWARK, NEW JERSEY – OCTOBER 30: Johnny Gaudreau #13 of the Columbus Blue Jackets skates against the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center on October 30, 2022 in Newark, New Jersey. The Devils defeated the Blue Jackets 7-1. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
“Johnny played the game with great joy, which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice. He brought a genuine love for hockey with him everywhere he played, from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets.”
The Columbus Blue Jackets paid tribute to their fallen star by sharing sweet memories of Gaudreau’s life both on and off the ice.
“He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could. The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him,” they wrote.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – NOVEMBER 18: Johnny Gaudreau #13 of the Calgary Flames scores against Brian Elliott #37 of the Philadelphia Flyers at 7:13 of the first period at the Wells Fargo Center on November 18, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
“We will miss him terribly and do everything that we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy,” they said.
The organization asked for prayers as the family grieves this shocking news and very sudden loss.
News of Gaudreau’s death comes just three years after Blue Jackets goalie Matiss Kivlenieks was killed in a fireworks incident. (RELATED: Netflix Star Julian Ortega Tragically Dies At The Beach At Age 41)
The team has reserved further comment for a later date.
This story will continue to be updated with new information as it becomes available.
