The Columbus Blue Jackets are mourning the loss of their player, Johnny Gaudreau, and his brother, Matthew, who were tragically killed in an accident in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The brothers, aged 31 and 29 respectively, were cycling when they were hit by a car on Thursday evening. The driver, identified as Sean Higgins, was suspected of driving under the influence and has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
The incident occurred when Higgins attempted to navigate around an SUV on County Route 551 after 8 p.m. The news of the brothers’ untimely death has sent shockwaves through the hockey community, with the Columbus Blue Jackets expressing their devastation over the loss.
In a statement, the team described Johnny as not just an exceptional hockey player, but also a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend. They extended their deepest condolences to his wife, Meredith, their children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, and their family and friends.
Born in Salem, New Jersey, Johnny Gaudreau had an illustrious career in the National Hockey League (NHL), playing for the Blue Jackets and the Calgary Flames over 11 seasons. In his last season, he played 81 games and scored 48 points. He is survived by his wife, Meredith, and their two young children.
The tragedy occurred just a day before the Gaudreau brothers were scheduled to participate as groomsmen in their sister Katie’s wedding. Katie is engaged to fellow hockey player Devin Joyce, and the wedding was set to take place in Gloucester City, New Jersey.
The Blue Jackets’ statement also highlighted Johnny’s passion for the game, stating that his love for hockey was evident every time he stepped on the ice. His impact on the organization and the sport was significant, but it was his personal relationships that left the most lasting impression.
Johnny Gaudreau, a native of Oldmans Township, attended Boston College where he won the Hobey Baker Award, the highest individual award in college hockey, in 2014. He was drafted by the Flames in the fourth round of the 2011 NHL Draft and was a seven-time All-Star. His brother, Matthew, also played hockey at Boston College and later signed with the New York Islanders’ minor league affiliate in 2017.
This is the second tragedy to hit the Blue Jackets in 2021. Earlier in the year, goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks, 24, died from chest trauma after being hit by a stray firework at a private party in Michigan.