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

Hockey player Johnny Gaudreau, who plays for the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his brother Matthew tragically lost their lives in a car accident while riding their bicycles on Thursday. This devastating news was confirmed by New Jersey state police.

The police say that the driver of a Jeep Grand Cherokee rear-ended the Gaudreaus while attempting to pass an SUV on the right. The SUV had moved over to allow space for the two cyclists.

The driver is believed to have been drunk while driving and has been accused of causing two deaths in a car accident, according to the police. They mentioned that the investigation is still in progress.

The people from New Jersey were visiting the area for their sister Katie's wedding, which was set to take place on Friday in Philadelphia.

The Blue Jackets did not reveal the circumstances of the brothers' deaths in an announcement on social media on Friday, calling it an "unthinkable tragedy".

“Johnny displayed immense happiness while playing the game, and this was evident to all who witnessed him on the ice,” the quote stated. “From Boston College to the Calgary Flames, to Team USA, and finally to the Blue Jackets, he carried with him a sincere passion for hockey. His performances brought excitement to fans in a unique way that only Johnny Hockey could. The influence he had on our team and the sport itself was significant, but it doesn't compare to the lasting impact he left on those who were fortunate enough to know him.”

Johnny Gaudreau, also referred to as 'Johnny Hockey', has been a professional player for 11 seasons in the league. He was about to start his third season with the Blue Jackets after spending nine seasons with the Calgary Flames. During his time with the Flames, he established himself as one of the top players in the sport and gained a large following of fans all over North America.

Gaudreau, standing at 5 feet 9 inches and weighing in at 180 pounds, was a player in hockey who excelled in a time where speed and skill were highly valued, making being smaller less of a drawback. He scored over 20 goals six times and had a remarkable season in 2021-22, earning a spot as a first-time NHL All-Star with an impressive 40 goals and 75 assists for a total of 115 points.

Selected in the fourth round by Calgary in 2011, Gaudreau played a key role in Boston College's victory at the NCAA championship in 2012. He also received the prestigious Hobey Baker Award in 2014, recognizing him as the best college player in the nation.

Gaudreau, a pro in the NHL, was named to the all-rookie team in his debut season and came in third for the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year in 2014-15.

Gaudreau has been consistently collecting points in hockey, averaging one point per game with a total of 642 points in 644 regular-season and playoff matches. He recently inked a new seven-year deal in 2022, valued at almost $69 million. This move brings him and his young family to central Ohio, where they will be closer to their relatives in New Jersey.

He has set new records for the most assists and points in the men's world championship by a US player, surpassing the previous records set by Patrick Kane earlier this year.

Gaudreau's passing is the most recent sad event to affect the team in the last couple of years. Another player, Matiss Kivlenieks, tragically passed away in July 2021 after being hit in the chest by a firework while at the wedding of then-Blue Jackets goaltending coach Manny Legace's daughter in Michigan.

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman expressed his sorrow and surprise over the sudden death of Johnny Gaudreau, a Columbus Blue Jackets player, and his brother Matthew. Johnny was known for his passion for the game and impressive skills, earning him the nickname 'Johnny Hockey.' However, he was more than just a talented athlete; he was also a devoted family man and cherished member of his team. He touched the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.