Tributes Pour in for Columbus Blue Jackets Forward Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Killed in Tragic Cycling Accident

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, were killed in a cycling accident on Thursday night by a suspected drunk driver. Gaudreau was 31, and his brother was 29.

The Columbus Blue Jackets organization and the hockey community at large are reeling from the tragic loss of forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, who were killed in a cycling accident on Thursday night. The team confirmed the news of their passing in a statement early Friday morning.

Johnny Gaudreau, known affectionately as "Johnny Hockey," was a beloved player on and off the ice. He brought joy to fans with his dazzling skills and infectious spirit. Gaudreau played nine seasons with the Calgary Flames before signing a seven-year contract with the Blue Jackets in 2022.

Tributes Pour in for Columbus Blue Jackets Forward Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Killed in Tragic Cycling Accident

In a statement, the Blue Jackets expressed their shock and devastation over the tragedy: "Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."

According to authorities, the Gaudreau brothers were riding bikes on a rural road in New Jersey when they were struck from behind by a car driven by Sean Higgins, 43. Higgins was reportedly attempting to pass two other vehicles and was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. He has been charged with two counts of death by auto.

Tributes Pour in for Columbus Blue Jackets Forward Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Killed in Tragic Cycling Accident

Matthew Gaudreau, 29, also played hockey at Boston College and for various minor league teams. He was the head hockey coach at Gloucester Catholic High School in New Jersey.

The Gaudreau brothers were reportedly set to be groomsmen at their sister's wedding in Philadelphia on Friday. The wedding has been canceled due to the tragedy.

Tributes Pour in for Columbus Blue Jackets Forward Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Killed in Tragic Cycling Accident

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed his condolences on the loss of a "doting father and beloved husband, son, brother, and teammate." He noted that Gaudreau will be fondly remembered in Calgary, where he emerged as one of the League's brightest young stars, and in Columbus, where he was one of the respected veteran leaders.

Tributes have poured in from across the hockey world, including from Gaudreau's former teammates and coaches.

Tributes Pour in for Columbus Blue Jackets Forward Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Killed in Tragic Cycling Accident

"Today is a dark day for hockey and a devastating day for the Gaudreau family," said Flames president and general manager Brad Treliving. "Johnny was an elite athlete and an exceptional person. Our hearts break for his family."

"Johnny was a special player and a great person," said current Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen. "He was a leader on and off the ice and will be deeply missed."

Tributes Pour in for Columbus Blue Jackets Forward Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Killed in Tragic Cycling Accident

Gaudreau's passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. He was a talented athlete who brought joy to many, and his loss is a profound one. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Gaudreau family during this difficult time.