The hockey world is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Johnny Gaudreau, who passed away after a bicycle accident in New Jersey Thursday night. The beloved Columbus Blue Jacket, known for his skill on the ice and humble demeanor off of it, was fatally struck while cycling in Oldman Township, New Jersey, leaving fans, teammates, and the broader sports community in shock.
According to police, Gaudreau and his brother were struck from behind by a driver attempting to overtake two vehicles. The two were pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver, Sean Higgins, 43, was taken into custody and was charged with two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, possession of an open container, and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle. Higgins will remain in jail in Salem County until his pretrial detention hearing on Sept. 5.
Columbus Blue Jackets statement on the passing of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew. pic.twitter.com/V2aFykgKIs
— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) August 30, 2024
Gaudreau, affectionately nicknamed “Johnny Hockey,” was a skilled forward and a beloved figure who inspired countless fans with his passion and dedication to the game. His untimely passing is a profound loss, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him and admired his career.
A fourth-round pick of the Calgary Flames in 2011, Gaudreau spent the last two years in Columbus after signing as a free agent in the summer of 2022. In those two seasons, he played 161 games, tallying 33 goals and 101 assists for 134 points. He played in 763 NHL games, finishing with 743 points, good enough for 29th all-time among American-born players.
The seven-time all-star was named to the NHL First All-Star Team in 2022 and won the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy in 2017. Before making it to the NHL, Gaudreau won gold with Team USA at the 2013 World Junior Championships and captured the Hobey Baker Award in 2014 after leading Boston College with 80 points in 40 games.
Gaudreau was in town to celebrate his sister Katie's wedding, scheduled for Friday in Philadelphia.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, the Blue Jackets community, and all who were touched by his presence during this difficult time.
