NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, brother pass away after car crash in New Jersey

NHL player Johnny Gaudreau died following an “unimaginable tragedy,” the Columbus Blue Jackets announced Friday. Gaudreau, aged 31, and his brother, Matthew, lost their lives after being struck and killed by a vehicle while bicycling in Salem County, New Jersey, confirmed by New Jersey State Police officials.

Gaudreau, known by fans as “Johnny Hockey,” was selected by the Calgary Flames in the fourth round of the 2011 NHL Draft after playing at Boston College. Ahead of the 2022-2023 season, he signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he registered 12 goals and 48 assists. Over his 11-season career in the NHL, Gaudreau scored 243 goals and accumulated 743 points, making seven All-Star game appearances.

“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,” the Blue Jackets said in their statement. “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 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," the statement continued.

The NHL Commissioner, Gary Bettman, expressed the league’s collective grief. “The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew,” Bettman said. “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.”

Gaudreau's prowess on the ice was well acknowledged, but those close to him remember him more for his roles as a family man and friend. The incident has reverberated throughout the hockey community and beyond, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.