NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, brother killed in New Jersey bike accident

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Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, were reportedly killed in a bike accident in New Jersey on Thursday night. The NHL team confirmed news of their passing in a statement early Friday morning. 

Gaudreau was 31. 

Johnny Gaudreau, #13 of the Columbus Blue Jackets, reacts after scoring the game-tying goal during the third period of a game against the Washington Capitals at Nationwide Arena on Jan. 31, 2023 in Columbus, Ohio. (Ben Jackson/NHLI via Getty Images)

"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," their statement read. 

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"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."

According to FOX 29, officials said the brothers were riding bikes on a rural road in Oldmans Township at around 8:30 p.m. when they were struck by a car. The driver of the car reportedly stayed on site. 

The Columbus Dispatch reported that the driver, 43-year-old Sean Higgins, was suspected of drunk driving and charged with two counts of death by auto.

Gaudreau, who joined the Blue Jackets in 2022 after nine years with the Calgary Flames, and his brother were reportedly set to be groomsmen at their sister’s wedding in Philadelphia on Friday, citing a post on a wedding website.

Brothers Johnny Gaudreau, #13, and Matthew Gaudreau, #21 of the Boston College Eagles, celebrate after the Eagles beat the