NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Matthew Tragically Killed in New Jersey Bike Accident
NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Matthew Tragically Killed in New Jersey Bike Accident,
NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew, 29, died in a biking accident in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, on August 29.
The Columbus Blue Jackets, Johnny’s team, expressed deep sorrow and paid tribute to his impact on the sport and his community. The accident occurred when a driver, suspected of being under the influence, collided with the brothers. The driver has been charged with two counts of death by auto. Johnny, known for his exceptional career and joy on the ice, leaves behind his wife Meredith and two young children.
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
A Devastating Loss for the Hockey World
In an unforeseen tragedy, NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew, 29, have died in a biking accident in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The Columbus Blue Jackets, Johnny’s team, have expressed their deep shock and sorrow over the loss.
The Incident
On Thursday, August 29, the Gaudreau brothers were involved in a fatal biking accident on Country Route 551 North, just after 8 p.m. Reports confirm that they were in their hometown of Salem County to serve as groomsmen at their sister’s wedding, scheduled for the following day. According to New Jersey State Police, the accident occurred when a driver, suspected of being under the influence of alcohol, attempted to pass another vehicle and collided with the brothers. The driver, identified as Sean M. Higgins, has been charged with two counts of death by auto. The investigation is ongoing.
Columbus Blue Jackets’ Tribute
The Columbus Blue Jackets released a heartfelt statement on August 30, reflecting on the profound impact Johnny Gaudreau had on both the team and the hockey community. “The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy,” the statement read. It continued, “Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend. 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 highlighted Johnny’s joy and passion for the game, noting how he brought a genuine love for hockey wherever he played from Boston College to the Calgary Flames, Team USA, and eventually the Blue Jackets. The statement concluded with an appeal for prayers and respect for the Gaudreau family’s privacy as they navigate this devastating time.
Remembering Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau
Johnny Gaudreau, renowned for his elite play and affectionately known as “Johnny Hockey,” won the Hobey Baker Award in 2014 as the best college hockey player. He was also a Calder Memorial Trophy finalist and won the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy in 2017. After an impressive eight-season tenure with the Calgary Flames, he signed a seven-year contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022.
Matthew Gaudreau, a Boston College graduate of 2017, played for various minor league teams, including the Worcester Railers. Most recently, he served as the head coach of Gloucester Catholic High School’s hockey team in New Jersey.
Johnny Gaudreau is survived by his wife, Meredith, and their two children daughter Noa, who is set to turn 2 in October, and son Johnny, who is 7 months old. The hockey community and fans alike mourn the loss of these two remarkable individuals and extend their deepest condolences to the Gaudreau family.
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NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Matthew Tragically Killed in New Jersey Bike Accident
