The brothers were apparently hit by a vehicle while cycling in New Jersey.
Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew have died, the organization announced on Friday. Johnny Gaudreau was 31 years old. Matthew Gaudreau, Johnny’s college teammate before spending several years in the minors, was 29.
“Johnny was not only an outstanding hockey player, but also a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend,” the Blue Jackets said in a statement. “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.”
According to the Columbus Dispatch, the Gaudreau brothers were engaged in a bike accident in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. No other information concerning their accident has been revealed.
Johnny Gaudreau was considered one of the best American players in the NHL, having competed in seven NHL All-Star Games, the most recent in 2023. In 2017, he received the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy, which is presented to the “player adjudged to have exhibited the best type of sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of playing ability.”
Prior to joining the NHL, he was the top player in college hockey, winning the Hobey Baker Award in 2014 while playing for Boston College.
He began his career in Calgary before signing as a free agent with the Blue Jackets in 2022. He was set to start his third season in Columbus in six weeks.
In response to the announcement, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman issued a statement.
“The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew,” Bettman told reporters. “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 doting father and beloved husband, son, brother and teammate who endeared himself to every person fortunate enough to have crossed his path.”
Gaudreau’s death marks the second time an active Blue Jackets player has been killed in an accident in recent years. In 2021, goalie Matiss Kivlenieks was killed in a fireworks incident in Michigan.