Columbus Blue Jacket forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew have sadly passed away. Johnny was 31. Matthew, who was also a professional hockey player, was 29.
As per a Friday report from the Columbus Dispatch, local police say the siblings were killed in a road accident while on their bikes Thursday night close to their hometown in Salem County, New Jersey.
According to New Jersey State Police, the driver remained at the scene of the accident but is suspected of driving under the influence.
Shocked by the news, the Blue Jackets released a lengthy statement on Friday morning.
“Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend,” the team wrote. “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.”
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
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman issued a statement of his own on the Gaudreau brothers’ untimely death.
“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,” wrote Bettman.
Drafted 104th overall in 2011 by the Calgary Flames, the elder Gaudreau’s electric play and offensive prowess earned him the nickname “Johnny Hockey”. In 763 regular-season games, the seven-time NHL All-Star netted 241 goals and 498 assists for 739 points.
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