Tragic Loss: Columbus Blue Jackets Star Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Matthew Killed in Bicycle Accident

Devastating Incident Shocks Hockey Community

In a devastating incident that has left the hockey community and beyond in a state of shock and disbelief, Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother Matthew were tragically killed in a bicycle accident on Thursday night. The accident occurred near their hometown in Oldmans Township, Salem County, New Jersey, just a day before their sister Katie’s wedding, where they were set to serve as groomsmen.

Details of the Accident

Johnny Gaudreau, 31, a celebrated NHL veteran who had spent the last two seasons with the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his brother Matthew, 29, were struck by a vehicle while cycling on Pennsville Auburn Road near Stumpy Lane. The accident happened just before 8:30 p.m. The brothers were reportedly cycling on the right side of the roadway when they were hit from behind by a Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins of Woodstown, New Jersey.

Circumstances Leading to the Crash

According to local news reports, Higgins attempted to pass an SUV that had moved to the middle of the road to pass the Gaudreau brothers safely. In a tragic turn of events, Higgins tried to pass the SUV on the right and struck the two cyclists. Both Johnny and Matthew sustained fatal injuries at the scene.

Charges and Investigation

New Jersey State Police confirmed the details of the accident in a statement, revealing that Higgins is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. He reportedly told a state trooper that he had consumed “five to six beers” before the incident. Higgins has been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide and is currently held in the Salem County Correctional Facility without bail.

Impact on the Gaudreau Family

The Gaudreau family is enduring unimaginable grief. Johnny left behind his wife Meredith, whom he married in 2021, and their two young children—Noa, 1, and baby Johnny, just six months old. Matthew is survived by his wife, Madeline, whom he married three years ago.

Statement from the Columbus Blue Jackets

The Columbus Blue Jackets issued a heartfelt statement expressing their deep sorrow at the sudden and tragic loss of Johnny and Matthew. “The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy,” the team said. “Johnny was a great hockey player and, 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.”

Johnny Gaudreau’s Legacy

Johnny Gaudreau, fondly known as “Johnny Hockey,” had an illustrious career spanning 11 NHL seasons, playing for both the Calgary Flames and the Blue Jackets. He was a seven-time All-Star and a finalist for the Calder Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s top rookie. Gaudreau’s contributions to the game, both on and off the ice, left an indelible mark on the hockey world.

Reflecting on Gaudreau’s Career

In a 2016 essay for The Players’ Tribune, Gaudreau reflected on his journey: “My focus was never squarely on making it to the NHL. I always tried to advance to the next level, one rung at a time.” His humility and passion for the game left a lasting impact on fans and teammates alike.

A Community Mourns

The hockey world mourns the loss of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, remembering them for their contributions on and off the ice. The Gaudreau family and the entire NHL community face a profound loss that words can hardly express.