Columbus Blue Jackets winger Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, tragically lost their lives on Thursday after being struck by a vehicle while riding their bicycles. The New Jersey State Police confirmed the heartbreaking incident on Friday. Johnny was 31 years old, while Matthew was 29.
According to authorities, the driver of a Jeep Grand Cherokee, Sean Higgins, 43, attempted to pass an SUV on the right side, which had moved over to give the cyclists space. Tragically, he struck the Gaudreau brothers from behind, leading to fatal injuries. Higgins, suspected of driving under the influence, has been charged with two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, possession of an open container, and consuming alcohol in a vehicle.
According to the probable cause affidavit, Higgins admitted to consuming five or six beers before the crash and stated that his drinking influenced his impatience and reckless driving. He failed a field sobriety test, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The Gaudreau brothers, natives of New Jersey, were in town to serve as groomsmen for their sister Katie’s wedding, which was scheduled for Friday in Philadelphia. In a statement, their uncle Jim Gaudreau expressed the family’s deep sorrow and gratitude for the outpouring of love and support, asking for continued privacy during this difficult time.
The Blue Jackets released a statement calling the Gaudreaus’ deaths an “unimaginable tragedy.” They highlighted Johnny’s infectious love for the game, which resonated with everyone who watched him play, from his college days at Boston College to his time with the Calgary Flames, Team USA, and the Blue Jackets. Despite his profound impact on the sport, the team emphasized that Johnny’s mark on those who knew him personally was even more significant.
Johnny Gaudreau enjoyed an illustrious 11-season NHL career with the Flames and Blue Jackets. He joined Columbus with a seven-year contract starting in the 2022-23 season and was an All-Star in 2023, scoring 12 goals and 48 assists in 81 games last season.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed the league’s deep sorrow at the loss, describing Johnny as not only a remarkable player but also a devoted father, husband, son, brother, and teammate who touched everyone fortunate enough to meet him. Matthew Gaudreau also had a notable hockey career, playing at Boston College and with various minor league teams.
Johnny Gaudreau, who earned the nickname “Johnny Hockey” at Boston College, helped lead the Eagles to a national title in 2012. He was a two-time Hockey East Player of the Year and the 2014 Hobey Baker Award winner, given to the top men’s college player in the nation. Former Boston College coach Jerry York praised the Gaudreau family, reflecting on the close-knit bond that made their loss even more devastating.
Johnny Gaudreau made his NHL debut with the Flames in the 2013-14 season, quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s brightest young stars. He scored 24 goals and 64 points in his first full season, helping the Flames reach the playoffs. Gaudreau became a six-time All-Star, achieving a career-high of 40 goals and 115 points in the 2021-22 season. Despite being undersized at 5-foot-9 and 180 pounds, Gaudreau thrived in an era that celebrated speed and skill, making him one of the most exciting players of his generation.
Gaudreau’s NHL journey began with the USHL’s Dubuque Fighting Saints, where he scored 36 goals and 72 points in 60 games, helping the team win the Clark Cup under future Boston Bruins coach Jim Montgomery. Gaudreau also represented the United States in the 2013 under-20 World Junior Championships, where he played a pivotal role in securing gold for Team USA. He went on to play for Team USA at five world championships, setting records for assists and points by a U.S. player, breaking marks previously held by Patrick Kane earlier this year.
USA Hockey and the NHL community have been deeply impacted by Gaudreau’s passing. Longtime NHL executive Brian Burke spoke of the joy Johnny brought to everyone he played with, highlighting his generosity and commitment to giving back to his community. Former Flames teammate Blake Coleman expressed his heartbreak, calling Johnny “one of the best,” while retired goaltender Eddie Lack remembered Gaudreau as one of his favorite teammates, always spreading positivity.
Gaudreau leaves behind his wife, Meredith, and their two young children, Noa and Johnny Jr. His untimely death marks the latest off-ice tragedy to affect the Blue Jackets, following the loss of goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks in July 2021, who was struck by a firework during a wedding celebration.
