The New Jersey State Police said that NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, who both played hockey for Boston College and were raised in New Jersey, passed away on Thursday after being hit by a car suspected of being driven while intoxicated while riding bicycles.

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman stated in a Friday morning release that Johnny, known for his infectious passion for the game and incredible on-ice talent, earned the nickname “Johnny Hockey.” However, he was not just an outstanding hockey player; he was also a devoted father, loving husband, cherished son, brother, and teammate who touched the lives of everyone he met. Johnny Gaudreau played as a forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his brother is Matthew Gaudreau.

 

NHL and Sports World Respond To Tragic Death Of Johnny Gaudreau.

The news that player Johnny Gaudreau of the Columbus Blue Jackets and his brother Matthew had died on Thursday stunned the hockey community.

The incident was verified by New Jersey State Police on Friday. According to their statement, two Gaudreaus were struck fatally from behind by a Jeep Grand Cherokee driver who was attempting to pass an SUV. Matthew and Johnny were riding in the capacity of “pedalcyclists.”

Several clubs and leagues, including NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, responded to the news on social media.

Matthew was 29 years old, and Johnny Gaudreau was 31.

Commissioner Bettman Statement on the Passing of Johnny Gaudreau. https://t.co/JJHCkBDIzF pic.twitter.com/fhbjomNOPw

— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) August 30, 2024

 

Our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, whose lives ended way too soon. Words cannot appropriately express the sorrow the hockey community is feeling today. pic.twitter.com/RvT1gPvbZd

— USA Hockey (@usahockey) August 30, 2024

It’s with great sadness, we mourn the tragic deaths of our friend Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau.

Our hearts are broken by this devastating loss. Johnny was and always will be a member of the Flames family and loved by all of Calgary. pic.twitter.com/xFm1md0vwh

— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) August 30, 2024

Creative director for the Boston Bruins Mark Majewski, who attended Boston College with Johnny and Matthew, provided his own statement.

This is one I won’t be able to process for the rest of my life.

Johnny & Matty weren’t just two of my favorite hockey players, but humans.

I am absolutely shattered. Love you both, boys. https://t.co/Y0YPJIo1Fk pic.twitter.com/5W26mfSbRW

— Mark Majewski (@markmajewski) August 30, 2024