NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were tragically killed in a drunk driving accident shortly after returning to their hometown to serve as best men at their sister's wedding. People was reported.
The 31-year-old Columbus Blue Jackets star and his 29-year-old brother returned to Oldmans Township, NJ ahead of their sister's wedding on August 30. Authorities say Johnny and Matthew were riding their bikes on Route 551 North just after 8 p.m. on August 29, when a driver believed to be under the influence of alcohol attempted to pass another vehicle and fatally struck the brothers.
On Friday morning, Johnny's team shared a statement on X (formerly Twitter) expressing their shock at the unspeakable accident.
“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy. Not only was Johnny a great hockey player, but more importantly, he was a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife, Meredith, children, Noa and Johnny, for the sudden loss of their parents, family and friends Johnny and Matthew,” the team said.
“Johnny had a joy in the game that was felt by everyone who saw him on the ice. He carried a genuine love for hockey everywhere he played, from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets .thrilled the fans in a way that only Johnny Hockey could,” the statement continued.
Johnny is survived by his wife, Meredith, and their two young children – daughter Noa, who will be two in October, and son Johnny, seven months.
Matthew is survived by his wife Madeline.
Both Gadreau brothers played hockey together at Boston College before Johnny was drafted into the NHL by the Calgary Flames. He signed a seven-year contract with the Blue Jackets in 2022. After graduating in 2017, Matthew played for several minor league teams. Since 2022, he has been the head coach at his and Johnny's New Jersey alma mater, Gloucester Catholic High.