The Columbus Blue Jackets organization released a statement confirming the deaths of beloved forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew.
Gaudreau was 31. According to unconfirmed reports, Hockey Star He and his brother were killed while riding their bikes in Old Mans Township, New Jersey, on Thursday night. Columbus Dispatch.
“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and heartbroken by this unimaginable tragedy. Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but above all else, a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend,” the team said in a statement sent to the X on Friday.
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA – NOVEMBER 26: Johnny Gaudreau (number 13) of the Columbus Blue Jackets celebrates a goal during the third period of a game against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena on November 26, 2023 in Raleigh, North Carolina. The Hurricanes defeat the Jackets 3-2. (Photo by Jaylin Nash/Getty Images)
Statement regarding the passing of Columbus Blue Jackets player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. pic.twitter.com/V2aFykgKIs
— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) August 30, 2024
Gaudreau signed with the team in July 2022 as the Blue Jackets' top forward. His passion for hockey and skills on the ice endeared him to fans and left an indelible mark on the sports world.
“Our deepest condolences go out to Johnny and Matthew's wife Meredith, their children Noah and Johnny, their parents, their families and friends on the sudden passing of both men,” the team wrote.
NEWARK, NJ – OCTOBER 30: Johnny Gaudreau (number 13) of the Columbus Blue Jackets plays against the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center on October 30, 2022 in Newark, New Jersey. The Devils defeated the Blue Jackets, 7–1. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
“Johnny played with such joy that it was felt by all who saw him on the ice. From Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets, he brought a pure love of hockey with him wherever he played.”
The Columbus Blue Jackets paid tribute to their late star by sharing fond memories from Gaudreau's life on and off the ice.
“He excited fans in a way that only Johnny Hockey can, and his impact on our organization and sport is immeasurable but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he left on all who knew him,” they wrote.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – NOVEMBER 18: Johnny Gaudreau (number 13) of the Calgary Flames scores against Brian Elliott (number 37) of the Philadelphia Flyers at 7 minutes and 13 seconds into the first period at the Wells Fargo Center on November 18, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
“We miss him greatly and will do all we can to support his family, and each other, as they get through this tragedy,” they said.
The group has asked for prayers for the family as they grieve this shocking news and sudden loss.
News of Gaudreau's death comes just three years after Blue Jackets goaltender Matisse Kivrenieks was killed in a fireworks accident. (RELATED: Netflix Star Julian Ortega Tragically Died on Beach at Age 41)
The team said it would make a further comment at a later date.
This story will continue to be updated as new information becomes available.
