NHL Star And His Brother Died In Tragic Accident At 31 & 29

Jenn G, Wikipedia

NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother passed away in a tragic accident on August 29. Johnny was 31, and Matthew 29 years old.

The brothers were biking along Country Route 551 North in  Oldmans Township, New Jersey when a suspected drunk driver tried to pass a car and fatally hit the brothers. The accident occurred a little bit past 8 p.m. The brothers were visiting their hometown this weekend because their sister’s wedding is on August 30. The brothers were supposed to serve as groomsmen according to PEOPLE.

Police told PEOPLE that they arrested the driver, Sean M. Higgins, and he is charged with two 

counts of death by auto, and the investigation is ongoing.

Gaudreau’s team, the Columbus Blue Jackets, posted about the tragedy on X.

 

“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy. 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,” the statement read.

“Johnny played the game with great joy, which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice. 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. Johnny embraced our community when he arrived two years ago and Columbus welcomed him with open arms.”

“We will miss him terribly and do everything that we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy. At this time, we ask for prayers for the Gaudreau family and that their privacy be respected as they grieve,” the message ended.

 

 

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A post shared by Johnny Gaudreau (@johngaudreau03)

The brothers both played for Boston College. Johnny was awarded the Hobey Baker Award in 2014, this is an award given to the best college hockey player. Johnny was drafted by the Calgary Flames and nicknamed Johnny Hockey. He was a finalist for the best rookie award. He was with the Flames for eight years before he signed a seven-year contract valued at $68.25 million with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022. He had 21 goals and 53 assists in his first season with the Blue Jackets.

Johnny is survived by his wife, Meredith, and two very young kids.

Matthew played hockey for several minor league teams. His most recent position is as head coach of the Gloucester Catholic High School in New Jersey.

 

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A post shared by Matty Gaudreau (@mattygaudreau11)

Matthew is survived by his wife, Madeline.