Former Calgary Flames player Johnny Gaudreau, brother Matthew killed in New Jersey collision
The driver of the vehicle was “suspected of being under the influence of alcohol,” police said. He was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto. He was taken into custody at the Salem County Correctional Facility.
Former Calgary Flames player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew tragically lost their lives in a collision in New Jersey on Thursday night.
According to a statement from the New Jersey State Police, the brothers were riding their bikes in Salem County shortly before 8:20 p.m. when they were struck by an SUV. Gaudreau, 31, and his brother, 29, both suffered fatal injuries in the accident.
Police reported that the driver of the SUV is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto and was taken into custody at the Salem County Correctional Facility.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman issued a statement early Friday morning expressing the league's shock and sadness at the tragic loss 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 devoted father and beloved husband, son, brother, and teammate who touched the lives of everyone he encountered,” Bettman said.
Gaudreau, a native of Salem, New Jersey, most recently played for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
“Johnny was not only an exceptional hockey player but also a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend,” the team said in a statement. “We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, and their family and friends during this sudden and heartbreaking loss of Johnny and Matthew.”
The team also highlighted Gaudreau's deep passion for hockey, which he carried with him throughout his career.
“He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could. While his impact on our organization and the sport was immense, it is overshadowed by the lasting impression he left on everyone who knew him,” the statement continued. “Johnny embraced our community when he arrived two years ago, and Columbus welcomed him with open arms. We will miss him dearly and will do everything we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy.”
Gaudreau played with the Calgary Flames from 2013 to 2022.
