Johnny Gaudreau, a professional hockey player, has passed away at the age of 31.
As reported by Philadelphia’s ABC News, Johnny and his brother Matthew, 29, were hit by a car while biking in Salem County, N.J. on Thursday night. The driver is believed to have been drinking.
Johnny played eight seasons with the Calgary Flames and was the top forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets since 2022. The Blue Jackets shared their sorrow:
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. At this time, we ask for prayers for the Gaudreau family and that their privacy be respected as they grieve.
Columbus Blue Jackets statement on the passing of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew. pic.twitter.com/V2aFykgKIs
— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL)Columbus Blue Jackets statement on the passing of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew. pic.twitter.com/V2aFykgKIs
— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) X
Starting at Boston College for three years before joining the Flames in 2014, Johnny earned the Hobey Baker Award for being the best NCAA player.
In his first full NHL season, he made it to the 2014 NHL All-Rookie team and played in the 2015 NHL All-Star Game. He was also a finalist for the Calder Memorial Trophy.
We feel such sadness over this news.
He leaves behind his wife Meredith and their children—Noa who is 2 years old and baby Johnny who is just 7 months old.
