The hockey world is in mourning following the tragic deaths of Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his younger brother Matthew Gaudreau, 29. The Gaudreau brothers were struck and killed by a suspected drunk driver while biking on Thursday evening in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, near their hometown in Salem County.
Incident Details: The fatal accident occurred around 8:30 p.m. on Pennsville Auburn Road. The brothers were riding their bikes along the side of the rural road when a Jeep Grand Cherokee, driven by 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins of Woodstown, New Jersey, allegedly attempted to pass a slower-moving vehicle. In doing so, Higgins struck the Gaudreau brothers from behind, resulting in their tragic deaths.
Higgins, who is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash, has been charged with two counts of death by auto and is currently held at the Salem County Correctional Facility. According to the police report, Higgins admitted to consuming “five to six beers” before the crash and failed a field sobriety test at the scene.
Community and Team Reactions: The news of Johnny Gaudreau’s death has sent shockwaves through the Columbus Blue Jackets organization and the broader hockey community. The Blue Jackets issued a heartfelt statement expressing their devastation over the loss of Johnny, who had become a beloved figure both on and off the ice since joining the Team in 2022. The team also extended their deepest sympathies to the Gaudreau family and requested privacy as they grieved.
This tragic incident marks the second time in recent years that the Blue Jackets have lost a player to a fatal accident. In 2021, goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks died in a fireworks-related incident during a July 4th celebration. The loss of Johnny Gaudreau, known for his infectious passion for the game and his commitment to the community, is another profound blow to the Team.
Johnny Gaudreau’s Legacy: Johnny Gaudreau, affectionately known as “Johnny Hockey,” was an accomplished NHL player who significantly impacted during his 11-season career. After starting his professional journey with the Calgary Flames, Gaudreau signed a seven-year contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022, citing his desire to be closer to his family in New Jersey as a primary reason for the move.
Gaudreau was not only a standout on the ice but also a devoted husband to his wife Meredith and a loving father to their two young children, Noa and Johnny. His death, along with his brother’s, leaves a deep void in the hearts of their family, friends, and the countless fans who admired his skill and sportsmanship.
Matthew Gaudreau, who also had a professional hockey career and later coached at their alma mater, Gloucester Catholic High School, was equally beloved in the community. The Gaudreau brothers’ contributions to the sport and their local community will be remembered fondly by those who knew them.
Impact on the Hockey World: The deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau have resonated across the hockey community, from the NHL to their former teams and schools. Tributes have poured in from players, coaches, and fans alike, all mourning the loss of two individuals who brought so much joy and talent to the sport. Their legacy will endure in the memories of those they inspired both on and off the ice.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the Gaudreau family during this unimaginably difficult time. The incident has also reignited discussions about road safety and the devastating consequences of impaired driving.