(WGHP) — An NHL star and his brother are both dead as the result of a bicycle crash, according to ESPN.
New Jersey State Police report that Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew died on Thursday night after being struck by a vehicle.
The driver of the vehicle is suspected of being drunk and is being charged with two counts of death by auto.
The Columbus Blue Jackets released the following statement:
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. 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 that 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 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 that 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.
Columbus Blue Jackets
