Columbus Blue Jackets hockey star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew have tragically passed away.
On August 29, the 31-year-old NHL star and his 29-year-old brother were riding their bicycles in Oldmans Township, Salem County, New Jersey, when a car struck and killed them, according to New Jersey State Police.
Police informed CBS News Philadelphia that the brothers were cycling along County Route 551 around 8:00 PM when a man driving a Jeep, who was reportedly trying to overtake a slower vehicle, hit them.
The driver, identified as Sean M Higgins, has been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, PEOPLE reports.
The brothers’ deaths occurred just days before their sister’s wedding, scheduled for today (August 30), where they were supposed to serve as groomsmen.
UNILAD has reached out to New Jersey State Police for further comments.
The NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets confirmed the tragic news in a statement shared on Twitter.
The statement reads: “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. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew.
“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. He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could.
“The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him.
“Johnny embraced our community when he arrived two years ago, and Columbus welcomed him with open arms. We will miss him terribly and do everything that we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy.”
Johnny is survived by his wife, Meredith, and their two children, one-year-old Noa and six-month-old Johnny. Matthew’s wife is named Madeline.
The Columbus Blue Jackets’ statement concludes: “At this time, we ask for prayers for the Gaudreau family and that their privacy be respected as they grieve.”
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact The Compassionate Friends at (877) 969-0010.