NHL Hockey player Johnny Gaudreau, better known as Johnny Hockey, and his brother Matthew Goodreau, died on Aug. 29, 2024. The Columbus Blue Jacket star and his brother were struck and killed by a drunk driver while riding bicycles in their home state of New Jersey just one day before their sister’s wedding. Johnny was 31 years old, and Matthew was 29.
Gaudreau was drafted by the Calgary Flames in the fourth round of the 2011 NHL Draft. He played nine seasons with the Flames, ranking 5th in total points for the franchise. In 2022, he signed a seven-year contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Throughout his career, Gaudreau made the 2014-2015 All-Rookie team, was a one-time all-star, and won the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy in 2016 for skill, sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct.
He leaves behind two children, his wife, his parents and sisters Kristen and Katie. At an emotional funeral just a few days after Johnny and Matthew’s death, Johnny’s wife Meredith revealed that she was pregnant with the couple’s third child.
Athletes across all sports have shared heartfelt messages about Gaudreau, including stars like Mike Trout, Jaromir Jagr and Henrik Lundquist. The Columbus Blue Jackets posted a heartfelt message on Instagram paying tribute to the late hockey star.
“Johnny played the game with great joy which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice,” said a statement from the Blue Jackets organization. “He brought a genuine passion for hockey with him everywhere. He played for Boston College, the Calgary Flames, Team USA and the Blue Jackets. He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could. His impact on our organization and our sport was profound but pales compared to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him.” Sean Higgins, the man who ran the Gaudreau’s off the road, has been charged with two counts of death by auto, along with reckless driving, possession of an open container and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle, according to a 2024 NBC News Article. He also had a previous track record of road rage and aggressive driving.
Gaudreau’s sudden death has left the hockey community devastated. Fans gathered around Nationwide Arena, the home of the Columbus Blue Jackets, and Scotiabank Saddledome, the Calgary Flames home, to pay homage to the passing of Gaudreau and his brother. The Gaudreau family will remain in everyone’s thoughts as the hockey season rolls around. The brothers will forever be remembered for their legacy on and off the ice.
Photo Credits: “Johnny Gaudreau” by Dinur is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
