New Jersey, September 1 – The hockey world is reeling from the sudden loss of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother Matthew, who were killed in a tragic accident on Thursday evening. The brothers were cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when they were struck from behind by a suspected drunk driver around 8:00 p.m., just as dusk settled over the area.
The Gaudreau brothers, ages 31 and 29, were beloved natives of Carneys Point, New Jersey. Their untimely passing is all the more heartbreaking as they were to serve as groomsmen at their sister Katie’s wedding in Philadelphia the following day. The family, poised to celebrate a joyous occasion, is now grappling with an unimaginable tragedy.
According to the New Jersey State Police, the driver, 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins, was attempting to pass two other vehicles when he struck the brothers. Higgins is suspected of operating his SUV under the influence of alcohol. He has been charged with two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, possession of an open container, and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle. The criminal complaint states that Higgins admitted to drinking five or six beers before the crash and was consuming alcohol while driving. He failed a field sobriety test at the scene and is currently held at a Salem County facility pending a pretrial detention hearing scheduled for September 5.
Johnny Gaudreau, affectionately known as “Johnny Hockey,” was set to enter his third season with the Columbus Blue Jackets after signing a seven-year, $68 million contract in 2022. He spent his first eight NHL seasons with the Calgary Flames, where he emerged as one of hockey’s premier players and a fan favorite throughout North America. His skill on the ice and charismatic personality made him a standout figure in the sport.
Matthew Gaudreau, like his brother, was also deeply involved in hockey, sharing a passion that bonded them both on and off the ice. Their former coach at Boston College, Jerry York, expressed his sorrow over the devastating news. “Just devastating news for all of us connected with the Gaudreau family,” York said. “Both Matty and Johnny were terrifically admired by all of us. Wonderful young guys, and they impressed a lot of us off the ice.”
The loss of the Gaudreau brothers has sent shockwaves through the hockey community, with teammates, fans, and officials expressing their condolences. The tragedy underscores the dangers of drunk driving and the profound impact it can have on families and communities. As the Gaudreau family navigates this difficult time, they are met with an outpouring of support from around the world.
