NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, were tragically killed in a suspected drunk driving accident shortly after returning to their hometown to serve as groomsmen in their sister’s wedding, People reported.
The Columbus Blue Jackets star, 31, and his brother, 29, had returned to Oldmans Township, NJ, ahead of their sister’s wedding on August 30. Per authorities, Johnny and Matthew were riding their bikes on Country Road 551 North just after 8 p.m. on August 29 when a driver suspected 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. 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 team said.
"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 statement continued.
Johnny is survived by his wife, Meredith, as well as 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. Matthew played for several minor-league teams after graduating in 2017. Since 2022, he served as head coach at his and Johnny’s New Jersey alma mater, Gloucester Catholic High.
