Tragedy has struck the hockey world as Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were tragically killed in a bicycle accident on Thursday night in New Jersey. The 31-year-old Gaudreau, known affectionately as “Johnny Hockey,” and his 29-year-old brother were struck by a vehicle in Oldmans Township, approximately 50 miles from Trenton.
The driver of the car, a 43-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. The Gaudreau brothers were reportedly returning home for their sister’s wedding on Friday.
Gaudreau’s death has sent shockwaves through the NHL. Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed his profound sadness, stating that Gaudreau’s “infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname ‘Johnny Hockey.'”
Gaudreau, a native of New Jersey, played his first nine seasons with the Calgary Flames before joining the Blue Jackets in 2022. He represented Team USA in world championships and was known for his electrifying play and infectious personality.
The Columbus Blue Jackets released a statement expressing their devastation over the loss of Gaudreau, who they described as “not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
“He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could. The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him,” the statement read.
The Calgary Flames also paid tribute to their former player, stating that “Johnny was and always will be a member of the Flames family and loved by all of Calgary.”
Gaudreau’s death is a tragic loss for the hockey community and beyond. His infectious spirit and exceptional talent will be deeply missed.
