Columbus Blue Jackets' Johnny Gaudreau Tragically Passes Away

The hockey world woke up to awful news on Friday, August 30 , and is mourning following the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau, who was killed in a car accident in Oldmans Township, Salem County, while riding his bicycle on Thursday, August 29.

Gaudreau, 31, was struck by a car along with his brother Matthew, who also lost his life in the accident.

According to New Jersey State Police, the incident occurred when a driver, identified as 43-year-old Sean Higgins, attempted to pass another car and hit the brothers from behind. Higgins failed a field sobriety test and has been charged with two counts of death by auto.

In the wake of this devastating news, the Columbus Blue Jackets issued an official statement expressing their grief.

"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."

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman also released a statement, reflecting on the loss the hockey community suffered.

"The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. 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 played his first nine seasons with the Flames from 2013–14 to 2021–22. He signed with the Blue Jackets after that, where he spent the rest of his career throughout the end of the 2023-24 season.

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