NHL superstar Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his younger brother, Matthew, 29, were tragically killed in a bicycle accident in New Jersey today on August 29, 2024 . The accident occurred while the brothers were riding their bikes in Oldmans Township, near their hometown of Salem County, when they were struck by a car. The driver, suspected to be under the influence of alcohol, was attempting to pass another vehicle. According to PEOPLE The driver, Sean M. Higgins, was arrested on charges of death by auto, and the investigation into the accident is ongoing.
The brothers were reportedly in their hometown to serve as groomsmen in their sister’s wedding on Friday. The Columbus Blue Jackets shared the news of their deaths on X (formerly Twitter).
“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy. 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 post read.
“Johnny played the game with great joy, which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice. He brought a genuine love for hockey with him everywhere he played, from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets. He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could,” the statement continued
“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 embraced our community when he arrived two years ago and Columbus welcomed him with open arms. We will miss him terribly and do everything that we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy. At this time, we ask for prayers for the Gaudreau family and that their privacy be respected as they grieve,” the post concluded.
Both brothers, Johnny and Matthew, played hockey at Boston College. Johnny was a standout player, winning the Hobey Baker Award in 2014 and being drafted by the Calgary Flames. He later signed a contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022. His brother, Matthew, also played hockey after graduating from Boston College in 2017. He coached their high school team and was a member of the Worcester Railers.
Johnny Gaudreau, the NHL star tragically killed in a car accident, is survived by his wife, Meredith, and their two young children. Their daughter, Noa, is two years old, while their son, Johnny, is seven months old.
The loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau is a devastating blow to their family, friends, and the hockey community.
