Johnny Gaudreau of the Columbus Blue Jackets died in a crash in New Jersey involving a suspected drunk driver.


 Johnny Gaudreau of the Columbus Blue Jackets died in a crash in New Jersey involving a suspected drunk driver.



Blue Jackets star forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, tragically died Thursday night, according to a statement from the team. The brothers were killed while biking in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, close to their hometown in Salem County.


Gaudreau, 31, had been the Blue Jackets' top forward after signing with the team in July 2022 as a free agent from the Calgary Flames. According to a post on a wedding site, Gaudreau and his brother were set to be groomsmen in their sister’s wedding the next day in Philadelphia. Johnny Gaudreau leaves behind his wife Meredith and their two young children, Noa and Johnny, both born in Columbus.


How Did Johnny Gaudreau Die?

New Jersey State Police reported that the Gaudreau brothers were struck and killed by a suspected drunk driver on a rural road. Matthew Gaudreau was 29.


The driver, Sean Higgins, was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. He was charged with two counts of death by auto and was taken to the Salem County Correctional Facility. Authorities have not yet announced when Higgins will appear in court.


According to police, Higgins, 43, from Woodstown, New Jersey, was driving north in a Jeep Grand Cherokee around 8:20 p.m. on Thursday evening. While attempting to pass a slower-moving sedan and SUV, Higgins entered the southbound lanes before trying to re-enter the northbound lanes. The SUV ahead of him moved to the middle of the road to safely pass the Gaudreau brothers, who were biking on the right side of the road.


Higgins attempted to pass the SUV on the right and collided with the two cyclists, fatally injuring both.


Statement from the Blue Jackets

In a statement, the Columbus Blue Jackets expressed their shock and devastation:


"The Columbus Blue Jackets are heartbroken by this unimaginable tragedy. Johnny was not only a phenomenal hockey player but also a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife, Meredith, their children Noa and Johnny, and the entire Gaudreau family. Johnny played with such joy, which touched everyone who watched him on the ice, whether it was with Boston College, the Calgary Flames, Team USA, or the Blue Jackets.


"He was a fan favorite, bringing a unique thrill to the game that only Johnny Hockey could. His impact on our organization and the sport of hockey was immense, but it doesn’t compare to the lasting impression he left on everyone who knew him personally. Johnny quickly embraced the Columbus community when he arrived two years ago, and the city welcomed him with open arms. We will miss him deeply and will do all we can to support his family and our team through this difficult time. We ask for prayers for the Gaudreau family and for their privacy to be respected as they grieve."


The Blue Jackets have announced that no further statements will be made at this time.

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