Tragedy struck the hockey world and the Gaudreau family as former Boston College standout Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were killed Thursday night in New Jersey. The brothers were hit by a vehicle while riding bicycles, with New Jersey State Police confirming that the driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. The Gaudreaus, originally from Carneys Point, New Jersey, were slated to be groomsmen at their sister's wedding the following day in Philadelphia, as Boston 25 News reported.
Boston 25 News reported that Johnny, 31, and Matthew, 29, were hit by Sean M. Higgins' Jeep Grand Cherokee as he tried to pass another SUV. Higgins is charged with driving under the influence and two counts of death by auto. Johnny Gaudreau, known as "Johnny Hockey," scored 12 goals and 48 assists for the Columbus Blue Jackets last season and had a notable NHL career with over 740 games and seven All-Star Game appearances.
The brothers both played for Boston College where Johnny garnered a national championship in 2012 and Matthew joined a year later, playing until 2017. According to reports from WCVB, the school said, "The entire BC community is stunned by the tragic news. Johnny Gaudreau was not only one of the greatest Boston College Men's Hockey players but also one of the nicest. Matthew was a gifted player and beloved by teammates. Our prayers are with the Gaudreau family at this time of unimaginable loss."
The Columbus Blue Jackets stated, "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" as mentioned in a post on WCVB. The Boston Bruins also recognized the Gaudreau brothers' impact as part of the Boston hockey community. Meanwhile, the National Hockey League Players’ Association Executive Director and former Boston mayor, Marty Walsh said, "Johnny was a beloved teammate and friend in both Calgary and Columbus, and he was a joy to watch during his 10 years and 763 games in the NHL. He enjoyed a decorated college career at Boston College where he played together with his brother, Matthew, who also went on to play professional hockey in the AHL and ECHL. The players and staff of the NHLPA are devastated by these terrible losses" as he reflected on the brother's careers and personal lives, according to the WCVB website.
Johnny Gaudreau is survived by his wife Meredith, children Noa and Johnny, and extended family. Matthew is survived by his wife Madeline. Jim Gaudreau has thanked everyone for their support and asked for privacy during this difficult time. The legal process for Sean M. Higgins, who faces charges related to the accident, is just beginning, with his court date yet to be set.
