Columbus Blue Jackets’ Johnny Gaudreau and brother die in ‘unimaginable tragedy’

Columbus Blue Jackets winger Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew have died in what the team called an “unimaginable tragedy.” Johnny Gaudreau was 31 and Matthew was 29.

The Blue Jackets have not released details about how the brothers died in a statement Friday on social media.

“Johnny played the game with a passion that was evident to everyone who saw him on the ice,” the statement said. “He brought a genuine love of hockey to everywhere he played, from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets. He delighted fans in a way that only Johnny Hockey could. The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound, but it pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on all who knew him.”

Gaudreau played 11 professional seasons for the Flames and Blue Jackets.

“The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew,” said NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement“While Johnny’s infectious spirit for the game and his show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname ‘Johnny Hockey,’ he was more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a devoted father and beloved husband, son, brother and teammate who endeared himself to all who were fortunate enough to cross his path.”

More to come.