Driver behind fatal crash involving Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau arrested
Photo credit: 6ABC
Tragic loss for hockey: Gaudreau brothers perish in drunk driving incident.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the hockey world mourns the loss of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, who were fatally struck by an alleged drunk driver.
The tragedy occurred just as they were preparing to celebrate a joyful family occasion-their sister's wedding.
Brothers on a bike ride
Johnny, 29, and Matthew, 31, were cycling near their home when they were hit. The incident happened just ten minutes away from their residence.
Sean Higgins, 43, has been arrested under charges of DUI, accused of causing the brothers' death after reportedly trying to overtake slower-moving vehicles, ultimately colliding with the Gaudreaus.
NHL commissioner expresses sorrow
Gary Bettman, Commissioner of the NHL, expressed the league's profound sorrow and shock at the loss. He highlighted Johnny's vibrant spirit and his significant impact both on and off the ice.
Known affectionately as �Johnny Hockey,' Gaudreau was renowned not only for his impressive skills but also for his warm personality and devotion to his family.
«The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. While Johnny's infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname �Johnny Hockey,' he was more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a doting father and beloved husband, son, brother and teammate who endeared himself to every person fortunate enough to have crossed his path.
"Gaudreau often told the story of how his father taught him to skate as a child in his home state of New Jersey and he carried that same youthful passion throughout his 11 NHL seasons. A skilled playmaker, Gaudreau participated in the NHL All-Star Game seven times where he was always a fan favorite, particularly while showcasing his talents in the various skills competitions for which he was so well suited.
«He will be remembered fondly in Calgary, where he played his first nine seasons with the Flames from 2013-14 to 2021-22, emerging as one of our League's brightest young stars while compiling the franchise's fifth-highest career points total. His loss also will be felt profoundly in Columbus, the city in which he chose to settle his family and where he was one of the respected, veteran leaders of a club building toward the playoffs. And both Johnny and Matthew will be mourned at Boston College, where they were teammates the year Johnny won the Hobey Baker Award in 2013-14, and at Gloucester Catholic High School in New Jersey, where both played and where Matthew was the head hockey coach following his own five-year pro playing career.
«We send our most heart-felt condolences to his wife Meredith; their children, Noa and Johnny; his parents, Guy and Jane; and sisters Kristen and Katie. And we grieve alongside his teammates, members of the Blue Jackets and Flames organizations, his many friends in hockey and countless fans around the world for whom he created indelible memories on and off the ice.»
"Gaudreau often told the story of how his father taught him to skate as a child in his home state of New Jersey and he carried that same youthful passion throughout his 11 NHL seasons. A skilled playmaker, Gaudreau participated in the NHL All-Star Game seven times where he was always a fan favorite, particularly while showcasing his talents in the various skills competitions for which he was so well suited.
«He will be remembered fondly in Calgary, where he played his first nine seasons with the Flames from 2013-14 to 2021-22, emerging as one of our League's brightest young stars while compiling the franchise's fifth-highest career points total. His loss also will be felt profoundly in Columbus, the city in which he chose to settle his family and where he was one of the respected, veteran leaders of a club building toward the playoffs. And both Johnny and Matthew will be mourned at Boston College, where they were teammates the year Johnny won the Hobey Baker Award in 2013-14, and at Gloucester Catholic High School in New Jersey, where both played and where Matthew was the head hockey coach following his own five-year pro playing career.
«We send our most heart-felt condolences to his wife Meredith; their children, Noa and Johnny; his parents, Guy and Jane; and sisters Kristen and Katie. And we grieve alongside his teammates, members of the Blue Jackets and Flames organizations, his many friends in hockey and countless fans around the world for whom he created indelible memories on and off the ice.»
Johnny's illustrious career
Johnny Gaudreau's storied career began in Calgary, where he played for nine seasons with the Flames, becoming one of the franchise's top scorers.
His move to Columbus was a new chapter, one where he continued to be a veteran leader. Both brothers also shared a history at Boston College, where their teamwork shined the year Johnny clinched the Hobey Baker Award.
Community and family mourning
The Gaudreaus leave behind a legacy of love, passion for hockey, and deep family ties. Johnny's wife Meredith, their children Noa and Johnny Jr., and a wider circle of relatives and friends, along with countless fans, now face a profound loss.
As the details of this devastating event continue to unfold, the focus remains on the indelible mark Johnny and Matthew have left on their community and the hockey world at large. Our thoughts go out to their family during this incredibly difficult time.
| POLL | ||
30 AOUT | 22 ANSWERS Driver behind fatal crash involving Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau arrested Have you witnessed drunk driving before? | ||
| Yes | 20 | 90.9 % |
| No | 2 | 9.1 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
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