The Columbus Blue Jackets are mourning an "unimaginable tragedy" after forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother were killed in a biking accident caused by an alleged drunk driver in their New Jersey hometown.

Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew, 29, were pronounced dead at the scene on the night of Aug. 29, according to New Jersey State Police, as reported by NBC Philadelphia. The incident occurred when the alleged drunk driver attempted to pass another vehicle.

The brothers were planning to attend their sister’s wedding on Aug. 30, according to NJ Advance Media.

On Aug. 30, the Blue Jackets expressed their condolences in a statement on X.

 The seven-time NHL All-Star, affectionately known as "Johnny Hockey," will be remembered for his unwavering passion for the game. 

"Johnny approached the sport with immense joy, a sentiment that resonated with all who witnessed him on the ice," the team remarked in their statement. "His authentic love for hockey was evident wherever he played, from Boston College to the Calgary Flames, Team USA, and the Blue Jackets.

"He captivated fans in a manner unique to Johnny Hockey. The influence he had on our organization and the sport as a whole was significant, yet it is overshadowed by the lasting impact he left on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Upon his arrival in our community two years ago, Johnny was embraced wholeheartedly by Columbus. His absence will be deeply felt, and we are committed to supporting his family and one another during this difficult time."

1. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman issued a statement regarding the passing of Johnny Gaudreau. 


"Johnny's vibrant passion for the sport and his remarkable talent on the ice earned him the nickname 'Johnny Hockey.' However, he was not just an exceptional athlete; he was a devoted father, a cherished husband, son, brother, and teammate who touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him," Bettman remarked.


Gaudreau marks the second player from the Blue Jackets to lose his life in a tragic incident within the past three years. 


In July 2021, goalie Matiss Kivlenieks tragically died due to a fireworks accident, struck in the chest by a stray mortar blast, according to authorities.


The Gaudreau brothers were raised in Carneys Point Township and rose to prominence at Boston College. Johnny Gaudreau was honored with the 2014 Hobey Baker Award, recognizing him as the top collegiate ice hockey player.


He was selected by the Calgary Flames in 2014 and earned a spot on the NHL's All-Rookie Team in 2015. Over nine seasons with Calgary, he ranks fifth in the franchise's all-time points list.


In 2022, he signed a seven-year free agent contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Gaudreau participated in the NHL All-Star Game in 2023 and led his team in scoring during the most recent season.


Matthew Gaudreau also enjoyed a five-year professional playing career. In 2022, he took on the role of head ice hockey coach at their former school, Gloucester Catholic High School in New Jersey.