Johnny Gaudreau, brother Matthew killed in New Jersey bike crash after being struck by suspected drunk driver
Columbus Blue Jackets winger Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, were killed Thursday when they were struck by a vehicle while riding bicycles, New Jersey State Police said in a release Friday.
According to New Jersey State police, the Gaudreau brothers were cycling on a road when 43-year-old Sean Higgins, driving in the same direction, attempted to pass two other vehicles and struck them from behind. Johnny Gaudreau, 31 and his brother Matthew Gaudreau, 29 were pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said Higgins was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and charged with two counts of death by auto and jailed at the Salem County Correctional Facility. The investigation is ongoing.
The brothers, both natives of New Jersey, were in town for their sister Katie’s wedding, scheduled for Friday in Philadelphia. What was meant to be a joyous occasion has turned into an unimaginable tragedy for the Gaudreau family.
The Columbus Blue Jackets, where Johnny played after joining the team on a seven-year contract in 2022, expressed their grief in a statement:
“Johnny played the game with great joy which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice… 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.”
Johnny, often known as “Johnny Hockey,” was a beloved figure in the NHL, known for his infectious spirit and remarkable skills on the ice.
Over his 11 NHL seasons with the Calgary Flames and Blue Jackets, Johnny earned six All-Star selections and was a key player on every team he joined.
He was an inspiration to many, not just for his on-ice achievements, but for the genuine love he showed for the game and his teammates.
Matthew Gaudreau, though not as well-known as his brother, was also a talented hockey player, having played at Boston College and in various minor leagues. The Gaudreau brothers shared a deep passion for the sport, making their loss even more devastating for those who knew them.
The NHL community has rallied around the Gaudreau family, with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman stating, “While Johnny’s infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname ‘Johnny Hockey,’ he was more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a doting father and beloved husband, son, brother, and teammate who endeared himself to every person fortunate enough to have crossed his path.”
I would like to echo what Bettman said in this statement with condolences to Johnny Gaudreau’s wife Meredith; his children, Noa and Johnny; his parents, Guy and Jane; and sisters Kristen and Katie, along with the entire NHL community and the rest of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau’s friends and family.
This tragic accident is a reminder of how fleeting life can be. For the Gaudreaus, who were on the brink of celebrating a family wedding, this loss is beyond comprehension. The entire hockey world shares in their sorrow, mourning the loss of two bright stars taken far too soon.
Johnny Gaudreau’s legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of fans and players alike, not just for his incredible talent, but for the joy and love he brought to the game of hockey.
As we remember Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Gaudreau, we hold their family in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
Johnny Gaudreau: Aug. 13, 1993 – Aug. 29, 2024
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