Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother were killed Thursday night when they were riding bikes and struck by a driver suspected of being under the influence of alcohol, according to police in New Jersey.
“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy,” the NHL team said in a statement. “Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew.”
Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and Matthew Gaudreau, 29, were cycling in Salem County, “close to the fog line of the roadway,” when they were hit from behind by a driver who was trying to pass another car, according to New Jersey State Police.
Johnny Gaudreau #13 of the Columbus Blue Jackets skates with the puck during the second period against the Pittsburgh Penguins at Nationwide Arena on March 30, 2024 in Columbus.
Jason Mowry/Getty Images, FILE
The driver, 43-year-old Sean Higgins, had been trying to pass a slower-moving sedan and SUV in front of him in the northbound lanes, so he moved to the southbound lanes and passed the sedan, police said. Higgins was trying to re-enter the northbound lane “when the SUV in front of Higgins moved to the middle of the roadway, splitting the north and south lanes to safely pass” the cyclists, police said.
Higgins then allegedly tried to pass the SUV on the right, and that’s when he struck the brothers, according to police.
Higgins, who was “suspected of being under the influence of alcohol,” is charged with two counts of death by auto, according to police.
“Johnny played the game with great joy which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice,” the Blue Jackets said. “He brought a genuine love for hockey with him everywhere he played from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets. 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.”
Gaudreau, a winger, won the Hobey Baker Award in 2014 as the best player in college hockey. He was also a finalist for the Calder Trophy, given to the league’s best rookie, in 2013-14, and named to the All-Star Game in 2015. He played nine seasons for the Calgary Flames before joining the Blue Jackets before the 2022-23 season. He had 12 goals and 48 assists last season.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement, “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.”
On a tragic night in Columbus, Ohio, a fatal accident involving Calgary Flames star Johnny Gaudreau and an alleged drunk driver has left the hockey community in shock. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning, when Gaudreau’s car was struck by another vehicle driven by a suspected drunk driver.
According to police reports, Gaudreau was driving home from a team event when the other driver ran a red light and collided with his vehicle. The impact of the crash was so severe that Gaudreau’s car was totaled, and he suffered serious injuries. Tragically, the driver of the other vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Columbus Police Department has confirmed that alcohol is believed to have been a factor in the accident, and the driver of the other vehicle is facing charges of driving under the influence. This devastating incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drunk driving and the devastating consequences it can have.
Johnny Gaudreau, also known as “Johnny Hockey,” is a beloved player in the NHL and a key member of the Calgary Flames. His talent on the ice has earned him numerous accolades and a loyal fan base. The news of his involvement in this tragic accident has left fans and teammates devastated, with many sending their thoughts and prayers to Gaudreau and his family.
The Columbus Blue Jackets organization has released a statement expressing their condolences to the family of the deceased driver and offering support to Gaudreau during this difficult time. The NHL has also issued a statement urging all players and fans to prioritize safety on the roads and to never drink and drive.
As the investigation into the accident continues, it serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the devastating impact that one wrong decision can have. Our thoughts are with Johnny Gaudreau, the family of the deceased driver, and all those affected by this tragic event.
