Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and brother killed when bicycles hit by car on eve of sister's wedding

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus Blue Jackets left winger Johnny Gaudreau was killed in a crash involving a suspected drunken driver in New Jersey, authorities said.

The team posted on X Friday morning confirming the death of the hockey star and his 29-year-old brother, Matt. 

"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 team said in a statement.

"At this time, we ask for prayers for the Gaudreau family and that their privacy be respected as they grieve," the team said.

You can read the full statement from the Blue Jackets on X below. 

New Jersey state police said around 8:20 p.m. Thursday, Johnny and Matthew were riding bicycles north on County Route 551. Meanwhile, a driver in a Jeep Grand Cherokee was also heading north and attempted to pass a sedan and SUV. 

While attempting to pass the SUV, the driver struck Johnny and Matthew. They both died from the injuries they sustained. 

Authorities said the driver, identified as 43-year-old Sean Higgins, of Woodstown, New Jersey, is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and is charged with two counts of death by auto. He is currently in custody. 

The Carneys Point, New Jersey, natives were in the area for their sister Katie's wedding scheduled for Friday in Philadelphia.

In 2022, Gaudreau signed a seven-year, $68.75 million contract through the 2028-29 season. 

Gaudreau was part of a high-flying triple threat in Calgary alongside Elias Lindholm and Matthew Tkachuk. Calgary finished first in the Pacific Division but was later eliminated by the Edmonton Oilers in the second round.

In December 2023, Gaudreau earned his 700th point in the NHL with an assist in a 5-3 loss to the New Jersey Devils. He had five points (one goal, four assists) for the United States in a 10-1 win against Kazakhstan in May to give him 43 at the IHF World Championship and break Patrick Kane's record for most points and assists by a U.S. player in tournament history.

As of August, Gaudreau played 763 games in his career with 243 goals and 500 assists. 

Gaudreau is also a six-time All-Star and was on the 2015 NHL All-Rooke Team.

“The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. 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," NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said.