(DailyAnswer.org) – Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, tragically died in a cycling accident in New Jersey on Thursday night. The brothers were struck by a suspected drunk driver. The Blue Jackets confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement early Friday. Johnny was 31, and his brother Matthew was 29.
The accident occurred in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, around 8:30 p.m. According to authorities, the brothers were riding their bikes when 43-year-old Sean Higgins, who was driving in the same direction, attempted to pass two vehicles and hit the Gaudreaus from behind. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. Higgins is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and has been charged with two counts of death by auto.
Johnny Gaudreau, known as “Johnny Hockey,” was a fan favorite in the NHL. He started his career with the Calgary Flames before joining the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022. He was a star player and was well-known for his love of the game, earning the nickname during his time at Boston College, where he helped lead the team to a national championship in 2012. His younger brother Matthew also played hockey in various minor leagues and was the head hockey coach at Gloucester Catholic High School in New Jersey.
The Blue Jackets released a statement mourning Johnny’s passing: “Johnny played the game with great joy, and his love for hockey was felt everywhere. His impact on our organization was profound, but it was his kindness and generosity that touched everyone who knew him.” They expressed their condolences to the Gaudreau family, asking for privacy and prayers during this difficult time.
The brothers were set to be groomsmen at their sister’s wedding in Philadelphia just one day after the tragic accident. The hockey community and fans are now mourning the loss of both Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, remembering their contributions on and off the ice.
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