Johnny Gaudreau, Brother Matthew Killed by Suspected Drunk Driver

Columbus Blue Jackets winger Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were fatally struck by a vehicle while they were riding bicycles. The New Jersey State Police confirmed the news in a statement on Friday regarding the tragic accident that occurred on Thursday. 

Authorities suspect that the driver was under the influence of alcohol and have charged the individual with two counts of vehicular homicide. The investigation remains ongoing.

Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, natives of New Jersey, were in the area to serve as groomsmen at their sister Katie’s wedding, scheduled for Friday in Philadelphia.

The Blue Jackets released a statement on Friday morning, calling the Gaudreau brothers’s death an “unimaginable tragedy."

Columbus Blue Jackets statement on the passing of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew. pic.twitter.com/V2aFykgKIs

— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) August 30, 2024

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman also released a statement expressing the league’s grief over the loss. “The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. While Johnny’s infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname ‘Johnny Hockey,’ he was more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a doting father and beloved husband, son, brother, and teammate who endeared himself to every person fortunate enough to have crossed his path."

Gaudreau played for the Flames and the Blue Jackets for 11 seasons in the NHL.

The Calgary Flames also issued a statement expressing their sorrow: “It’s with great sadness, we mourn the tragic deaths of our friend Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau. Our hearts are broken by this devastating loss. Johnny was and always will be a member of the Flames family and loved by all of Calgary."

Johnny Gaudreau was 31 years old, and his brother Matthew was 29.

SportsGrid extends our condolences and deepest sympathies to the Gaudreau family.