NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were tragically killed in a drunk-driving accident shortly after returning home to serve as best men at their sister's wedding. People reported.
The 31-year-old Columbus Blue Jackets star and his 29-year-old brother had returned to Oldmans Township, New Jersey, ahead of their sister's wedding on Aug. 30. According to authorities, Johnny and Matthew were riding their bikes on Country Road 551 North just after 8 p.m. on Aug. 29 when a driver believed to be under the influence of alcohol fatally struck the brothers while trying to pass another vehicle.
On Friday morning, Johnny's team posted 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 importantly, a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Meredith, children Noa and Johnny, their parents, family and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew,” the team said.
“Johnny played the game with pure joy and that was felt by everyone who saw him on the ice. He brought a genuine love of hockey everywhere he played, from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets. He excited fans the way only Johnny Hockey could,” the statement continued.
Johnny is survived by his wife, Meredith, and two young children: daughter Noa, who turns two in October, and seven-month-old son Johnny.
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 has served as the head coach at Gloucester Catholic High, his and Johnny's alma mater in New Jersey.
