NHL player Johnny Gaudreau has passed away following what the Columbus Blue Jackets described on Friday as an “unimaginable tragedy.” Gaudreau was 31 years old.
The team also reported that Gaudreau’s brother, Matthew, had died as well.
According to CNN affiliates WPVI-TV and KYW-TV, New Jersey State Police officials have confirmed that Gaudreau and his brother were the two cyclists who were struck and killed by a vehicle in Salem County, New Jersey.
Nicknamed “Johnny Hockey,” Gaudreau was selected by the Calgary Flames in the fourth round of the 2011 NHL Draft after playing for Boston College. He joined the Columbus Blue Jackets before the 2022-2023 season, during which he scored 12 goals and made 48 assists.
“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy. Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend,” the Blue Jackets said in the 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.
“Johnny played the game with great joy which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice. He brought a genuine love for hockey with him everywhere he played from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets. He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could.
“The impact he had on our organisation and our sport was profound, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him,” the statement continued.
Throughout his 11 seasons in the NHL, Gaudreau scored 243 career goals and amassed 743 points, earning him seven All-Star game appearances.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed that the NHL community is “shocked and saddened” by Gaudreau’s death.
“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 said.
“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.”
Nancy Mbamalu
CNN
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