Tragedy struck the hockey world Thursday night when NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother Matthew were tragically killed in a bicycle accident in New Jersey. The brothers, ages 31 and 29, were hit by a suspected drunk driver, according to police reports.
The Gaudreau brothers, both natives of Carneys Point, New Jersey, were preparing to serve as groomsmen in their sister Katie's wedding, which was set to take place the following day in Philadelphia.
Authorities from the New Jersey State Police stated that the Gaudreaus were cycling when an SUV driven by 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins attempted to pass two other vehicles and struck the brothers from behind. Sadly, both were pronounced dead at the scene.
Higgins, who was suspected of driving under the influence, has been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide, along with other offenses such as reckless driving, possession of an open container, and consuming alcohol while driving. He is currently being held at the Salem County Correctional Facility.
This isn't Higgins' first run-in with the law. Records show he was previously arrested for driving while intoxicated in Cumberland County. His 2005 DWI charge was dismissed due to the arresting officer's absence in court, and he had also had a speeding ticket dismissed in 2001 due to a clean driving record at the time.
According to a criminal complaint obtained by The Associated Press, Higgins admitted to having consumed five or six beers prior to the accident and confessed to drinking while driving. He failed a field sobriety test, though his blood alcohol level has not been disclosed.
Johnny Gaudreau, affectionately known as "Johnny Hockey," was a prominent figure in the NHL, playing 11 professional seasons. He was about to enter his third season with the Columbus Blue Jackets, having spent his first nine years with the Calgary Flames. Known for his exceptional skills and infectious love for the game, Gaudreau quickly became a fan favorite across North America.
Jerry York, who coached both Gaudreau brothers at Boston College, expressed his sorrow, describing them as "terrific young men" who were beloved both on and off the ice. "The news is just devastating," York said.
Gaudreau's family was deeply committed to hockey, with both parents, Guy and Jane, heavily involved in their children's athletic pursuits. Johnny had been married to his wife, Meredith, since 2021, and the couple had two young children: Noa, born in September 2022, and Johnny, born in February 2023.
The Blue Jackets released a statement expressing their grief, saying, "Johnny was not only an incredible hockey player but also a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He played the game with great joy, a joy that resonated with everyone who watched him on the ice."
Despite his smaller stature at 5-foot-9 and 180 pounds, Gaudreau thrived in an era of hockey that celebrated speed and skill, proving that size was not a barrier to success. Over his career, he scored 20 or more goals six times and earned 115 points in the 2021-22 season, including a career-high 40 goals. His dazzling performances earned him the nickname "Johnny Hockey," but those who knew him best remember him as a loving father, husband, and teammate.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman highlighted Gaudreau's impact both on and off the ice, stating, "Johnny’s passion for hockey and his show-stopping skills made him a joy to watch, but his kind heart and dedication to his family are what truly set him apart."
Marty Walsh, executive director of the NHLPA, echoed those sentiments, calling Gaudreau a "beloved teammate and friend" who brought joy to everyone who watched him play during his 10 years and 763 games in the NHL.
Gaudreau's career highlights included helping Boston College win the NCAA championship in 2012 and receiving the Hobey Baker Award in 2014 as the nation's top college player. He was also a key part of the NHL All-Rookie Team during his first season and narrowly missed out on the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year.
With 642 points in 644 regular-season and playoff games, Gaudreau's impact on the ice was undeniable. In 2022, he signed a seven-year, nearly $69 million contract with the Blue Jackets, bringing him closer to his family in New Jersey.
The hockey community, including former Flames teammate Blake Coleman and retired goaltender Eddie Lack, took to social media to express their heartbreak over Gaudreau's untimely death. NBA superstar LeBron James also shared his condolences, expressing deep sadness upon hearing the news.
Gaudreau's tragic death marks yet another loss for the Columbus Blue Jackets organization, which mourned the death of goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks in 2021 after a freak accident at a wedding. Now, just weeks before the start of the NHL training camps, the team faces another devastating blow.
In their statement, the Blue Jackets vowed to support the Gaudreau family through this difficult time, requesting privacy for the family as they grieve. "We will miss him terribly and do everything we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy," the team said.
Gaudreau's legacy as both a hockey star and a beloved family man will undoubtedly live on, but his loss leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.