Fans gather at a makeshift memorial for Johnny Gaudreau, a Columbus Blue Jackets hockey player, in Columbus, Ohio, on August 30, 2024. Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were tragically killed when a driver hit them while they were cycling last week. (AP Photo/Joe Maiorana)
As the Columbus Blue Jackets gear up for training camp, they are grappling with a heartbreaking loss. All-Star winger Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother Matthew were tragically killed when a suspected drunk driver hit them while they were cycling in New Jersey.
On Wednesday, at Nationwide Arena, President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Don Waddell, along with four of Johnny Gaudreau's teammates, spoke publicly about the devastating loss. They shared their grief and reflections on Johnny’s impact before a candlelight vigil, which will feature 13 minutes and 21 seconds of silence to honour Johnny and Matthew’s jersey numbers.
Waddell expressed the team’s profound sadness, saying, "While there's a huge hole in our lineup, there's an even bigger one in our hearts." He emphasized that the team’s current priority is to support the Gaudreau family and each other during this difficult time. The Blue Jackets will lean on their leaders, including captain Boone Jenner, to guide them through the grieving process.
Jenner assured that the team will stay united through this tragedy. "As a team, we're going to get through this together," Jenner said. "We’ll grieve, cry, and support each other, but we will persevere because that’s what Johnny would have wanted."
Defenceman Erik Gudbranson remembered Johnny’s unique personality and how it brought the team together, despite sometimes driving him crazy. "You will continue to inspire me to be just like you," Gudbranson remarked.
Johnny Gaudreau had made a significant decision in 2022, turning down a more lucrative offer from the New Jersey Devils to sign a $68.25 million, seven-year contract with the Blue Jackets. Defenceman Zach Werenski praised Gaudreau’s choice to move to Columbus, noting the joy he brought to the city.
The tragic accident occurred on Thursday night when Johnny and Matthew were cycling in Oldmans Township. A 43-year-old man, Sean M. Higgins, tried to pass two vehicles and collided with them. The brothers were pronounced dead at the scene. Higgins has been charged with two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, and other offences related to alcohol.
Gudbranson urged people to avoid driving under the influence, saying, "If you think about driving after a few beers or a fun night, please, please, please do not. Find a way home."
The tragedy has reverberated throughout the hockey world. Marty Walsh, executive director of the NHLPA, noted that the impact of the Gaudreau brothers' deaths is being felt across the league and beyond. "The tributes are beautiful to see. We’ve got to continue to support the family the best we can," Walsh said.
