The longtime NHL player Johnny Gaudreau has died at just 31 years old. He and his brother Matthew both perished in an accident.
– Shocked and heartbroken
Columbus Blue Jackets, who have had Gaudreau on their roster recently, confirm the hockey star’s passing in a statement.
– Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and heartbroken over this unfathomable tragedy, the club writes.
According to several media outlets, including the New York Post, Gaudreau and his brother Matthew died in a bicycle accident. They were reportedly struck by a car.
The newspaper also states that the two brothers were supposed to be best men at their sister Kate’s wedding on Friday. She is marrying hockey player Devin Joyce.
– Johnny was not only a great hockey player but even more a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend. We express our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family, and friends after this sudden loss, the Blue Jackets write.
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– We will miss him terribly
Gaudreau had a history as a player with the Canadian Calgary Flames.
– Johnny played hockey with great joy, something everyone who saw him on the ice could see. He brought a true love for the sport everywhere he played, from Boston College to Calgary Flames to the American national team and the Blue Jackets, the club writes – and adds:
– He thrilled the fans in a way only Johnny could. The impact he had on our organization and our sport was deep, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him. We will miss him terribly and do everything we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy.
It is requested that the Gaudreau family’s privacy be respected as they mourn.
Gaudreau’s death comes just three years after Blue Jackets goalkeeper Matiss Kivlenieks died in a firework accident.