The Columbus Blue Jackets have been struck by another summer tragedy with the sudden death of Johnny Gaudreau. According to a statement from the team, Gaudreau, 31, and his brother, Matthew, were killed in a biking accident on Thursday night in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, near their hometown in Salem County.
Gaudreau, who had been the Blue Jackets' leading forward since signing as a free agent from the Calgary Flames in July 2022, was set to be a groomsman in his sister's wedding in Philadelphia on Friday. He leaves behind his wife Meredith and two young children, Noa and Johnny, who were born in Columbus.
The team's statement reads:
"The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy. Johnny was not only a great hockey player but also 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 who 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 it 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 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."
Gaudreau’s death comes three years after the Blue Jackets' goalie, Matiss Kivlenieks, was killed in a fireworks accident on July 4, 2021.
Despite facing criticism for his decision to leave Calgary and join the Blue Jackets, Gaudreau remained committed to his choice, driven by his desire to raise his family closer to their roots in New Jersey. He had a challenging but impactful season, leading the Blue Jackets with 60 points in the previous season and showing strong performance at the World Championships.
As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the void left by Gaudreau's passing is immense. The Blue Jackets are left mourning the loss of a beloved player and friend, with the future now carrying the weight of his absence on and off the ice.