Tragic Accident Claims Lives of NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau and Brother

NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew, were tragically killed on Thursday night in New Jersey while riding their bicycles. The incident occurred when they were struck by a car driven by a suspected drunk driver.

Johnny, 31, and Matthew, 29, were in New Jersey for their sister Katie's wedding, which was set to take place in Philadelphia on Friday. According to New Jersey State Police, the brothers were cycling on a road when a man driving in the same direction tried to pass two vehicles and hit them from behind. Sadly, both brothers were pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver, Sean M. Higgins, is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. He has been charged with two counts of death by auto and is currently in custody at the Salem County Correctional Facility.

Johnny Gaudreau, affectionately known as "Johnny Hockey," had an illustrious 11-season career in the NHL. He was about to enter his third season with the Blue Jackets, after spending his first nine seasons with the Calgary Flames, where he became one of hockey's most admired players.

The Blue Jackets expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, "Johnny was not only a great hockey player but also a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He brought joy to the game, and his passion for hockey was felt by everyone who watched him play."

Standing at 5-foot-9 and 180 pounds, Gaudreau was part of a generation of hockey players who excelled in a fast-paced and skilled era, proving that size was not a barrier to success. He scored 20 or more goals in six seasons and had an outstanding 115-point season in 2021-22, earning him a spot as an NHL All-Star.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman also paid tribute, saying, "While Johnny's skills on the ice earned him the nickname 'Johnny Hockey,' he was more than just a talented player; he was a devoted father and beloved family man who touched everyone he met. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife, Meredith; their children, Noa and Johnny; his parents, Guy and Jane; and sisters Kristen and Katie. We join his teammates, the Blue Jackets and Flames organizations, and his many friends and fans in mourning his loss."

Gaudreau's hockey journey began when he was selected by Calgary in the fourth round of the 2011 NHL Draft. He helped Boston College win the NCAA championship in 2012 and received the Hobey Baker Award in 2014 as the top college player in the nation. In the NHL, he quickly made a name for himself, earning a spot on the all-rookie team in his first season and finishing third in the Calder Trophy voting for rookie of the year in 2014-15. In 2016, he was awarded the Lady Byng Trophy for being the NHL's most gentlemanly player.

Throughout his career, Gaudreau was a consistent performer, accumulating 642 points in 644 regular-season and playoff games. In 2022, he signed a seven-year contract worth nearly $69 million, which brought him and his young family to central Ohio, closer to his roots in New Jersey.

Gaudreau's legacy also includes setting records for the U.S. men's world championship team, with 30 assists and 43 points, surpassing previous marks held by Patrick Kane earlier this year.

This tragic incident follows another devastating event for the Blue Jackets organization, as goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks died in July 2021 after being struck by a firework during a wedding celebration.