Matthew Gaudreau and Johnny Gaudreau Death: Johnny Gaudreau, a celebrated left winger for the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his younger brother, Matthew Gaudreau, tragically lost their lives on Thursday, August 29, 2024, in a devastating accident in southern New Jersey. The Gaudreau brothers were struck by a suspected drunk driver while riding their bicycles, leaving behind a family and community in mourning.
A Life Cut Short Too Soon
Johnny Gaudreau, 31, was known not only for his remarkable skills on the ice but also for his deep dedication to his family. A native of southern New Jersey, Johnny was a star in the NHL, earning the nickname “Johnny Hockey” for his incredible talent and passion for the game. Over the course of 11 NHL seasons, Johnny scored 500 goals and provided 243 assists. He was a cornerstone of the Columbus Blue Jackets, leading the team in scoring over the past two seasons. Johnny’s decision to join the Blue Jackets as a free agent was rooted in his desire to raise his family in central Ohio.
He turned down larger contract offers from other teams, choosing instead to prioritize the well-being of his loved ones. Johnny was not only a gifted athlete but also a devoted son, brother, husband, and father. Matthew Gaudreau, 29, shared his brother’s love for sports and adventure. Known for his kind heart and unwavering support for his family, Matthew was always there for his loved ones, offering a smile, a laugh, and a helping hand whenever needed. His bond with Johnny was strong, and the brothers were inseparable, sharing countless memories and experiences that will be cherished forever by those who knew them.
The Tragic Incident
The Gaudreau brothers were in southern New Jersey to celebrate their sister Katie’s wedding. On the evening of August 29, they were bicycling north on County Route 551 in Oldmans Township when they were struck by a Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Sean Higgins, 43, of Woodstown, New Jersey. According to investigators, Higgins was attempting to pass two cars when he collided with the brothers, who were riding on the right side of the road. Higgins admitted to consuming five or six beers before the incident and failed several field sobriety tests. He was detained and charged with two counts of vehicular homicide. The investigation into the accident is ongoing, but the impact of this senseless tragedy is already deeply felt.
A Legacy of Love and Dedication
The Columbus Blue Jackets expressed their profound sorrow in a statement, saying, “The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy. In addition to being a fantastic hockey player, Johnny was also a devoted son, brother, spouse, and father. We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and relatives on the unexpected passing of Johnny and Matthew.” Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau will be remembered for their love of life, their dedication to their family, and the joy they brought to those around them. Their loss is a tremendous blow to all who knew them, but their memory will continue to inspire and uplift their loved ones.
Survived By
Johnny and Matthew are survived by their parents, Guy and Jane Gaudreau; their sister, Katie; Johnny’s wife and children; and numerous other family members and friends who loved them dearly.
Memorial Services
Memorial services for Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau will be held in their hometown in New Jersey. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in their memory to organizations dedicated to promoting safe driving and supporting victims of drunk driving accidents. Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau will be forever missed, but their legacy of love, laughter, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know them.