NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew, 29 killed in horror New Jersey bicycle accident ‘just hours before their sister’s wedding’
Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother Matthew were tragically killed in a bicycle accident in New Jersey on Thursday night.
Gaudreau, a 31-year-old NHL veteran who played the last two seasons with the Blue Jackets, was reportedly riding his bike with Matthew, 29, in Oldmans Township when the fatal crash occurred around 8:30 p.m.
According to details from a local news station, the two brothers were struck and killed by another vehicle on Pennsville Auburn Road, near Stumpy Lane. 6 ABCThe driver is said to have remained at the scene after the accident.
It is believed they died the night before their sister Katie’s wedding.
Johnny is survived by his wife Meredith, whom he married in September 2021, and two young children: one-year-old daughter Noa and son Johnny Jr, who was born just six months ago.
Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau tragically died Thursday in a bicycle accident with his brother (pictured: Gaudreau with his wife Meredith and their two children)
Gaudreau, a 31-year NHL veteran, played the past two seasons with the Blue Jackets
Columbus released a statement Friday morning confirming the passing of their player, admitting that they will “miss him deeply” and offering their condolences to his family.
“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy,” the statement said. “Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more importantly a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. We extend our sincere condolences to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their families and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew.”
“Johnny played the game with a passion that was evident to everyone who saw him on the ice. 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 made fans happy 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.
“Johnny embraced our community when he arrived two years ago, and Columbus welcomed him with open arms. We will miss him terribly and will do everything we can to support his family and each other during this tragedy.
“We ask for prayers for the Gaudreau family and that their privacy be respected as they grieve.”