Johnny Gaudreau Death: NHL Star Dies in Tragic Bicycle Accident

I felt SAD to telling you, Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau has died in a tragic bicycle accident 🥺🥺😢 in New Jersey, USA. Johnny Gaudreau,  31-year-old NHL player was riding his bike near his offseason home when the incident occurred on August 30, 2024. The hockey community mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, known affectionately as “Johnny Hockey.”

Please take a 2 minutes silence for Late Johnny Gaudreau!!

Tragic Accident Causes and Place of  Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau

You may feels heartfelt news about Johnny Matthew accident. It was involved in a fatal bicycle accident in his hometown of Salem, New Jersey. Johnny Gaudreau (31) and his brother Matthew (29) were hit by a Jeep while riding bikes. The accident happened on Thursday night on County Route 551 in Oldmans Township, Salem County. The Jeep driver, Sean Higgins (43) from Woodstown, New Jersey, tried to pass another car. He then struck the Gaudreau brothers, who were biking on the road’s right side.

Johnny Gaudreau Brother Matthew
Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, Photo Source: Richard T Gagnon / Getty Images

On Thursday night in Oldmans Township, Salem County County Route 551 was the site of an accident involving a Jeep hitting bikes ridden by Johnny Gaudreau (31) and his brother Matthew (29). The accident occurred in Salem County on County Route 551. The Jeep driver, Sean Higgins (43) from Woodstown, New Jersey, tried to pass another car. He then struck the Gaudreau brothers, who were biking on the road’s right side.

Sean Higgins Arrested
Sean Higgins has been accused for killing both Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Gaudreau, Image Source: Salem County Correctional Facility

How did Johnny Gaudreau died?

Is it okay to called Mr. Sean Higgins a murderer? Anyway, I think that’s fine, right?

The trooper wrote in his report, “Murderer Higgins claimed to have drank around 5-6 beers before the accident took place. I gave him standardized field sobriety tests and he failed them.”

The officer wrote, “Mr Higgins acknowledged drinking alcohol prior to and during his operation of the vehicle.”

Higgins was held on suspicion of driving under the influence of intoxicating liquor after which he faced two counts for death by vehicle. Subsequently, he ended up at Salem County Jail.

Do you know the exact place of Johnny Gaudreau’s accident place? Take a look at the picture down below:

Johnny Gaudreau's Accident Place
Google map Photo of Johnny Gaudreau’s bicycle accident, Via: CBS News.

 

Gaudreau’s NHL Legacy

Famous Hockey Player, killed by drunk driver at the end of a stellar career that spanned over a decade in the National Hockey League. He was famous for his exceptional speed and playmaking abilities, he made a significant impact during his time with the Calgary Flames and most recently, the Columbus Blue Jackets. You can check all the Johnny Gaudreau’s stats through this link.

Career Highlights:

  • Drafted 104th overall by the Calgary Flames in 2011
  • Six-time NHL All-Star (2015-2019, 2022)
  • Lady Byng Memorial Trophy winner (2017)
  • Career-high 115 points in the 2021-22 season

Also Read: How did Lazar Đukić died?

Impact on Columbus Blue Jackets

Gaudreau joined the Blue Jackets in 2022, signing a seven-year, $68.25 million contract. His arrival rejuvenated the team and brought renewed excitement to fans in Ohio. Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner shared, “Johnny was more than just an incredible player; he was an amazing person and friend. His passion for the game was contagious.”

Family of Johnny Gaudreau:

Johnny has wife, Meredith, and their young daughter. The family father Guy and mother Jane has requested privacy during this difficult time but expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and the hockey community.

Johnny Gaudreau's Wife and daughter
Late Johnny Gaudreau showing his love to her young daughter, Photo Source: Twitter

Memorial Services and Tributes

The Columbus Blue Jackets organization announced plans for a public memorial service to honor Gaudreau’s life and career. Details of the service will be shared on the team’s official website. Fans have already begun creating makeshift memorials outside Nationwide Arena, leaving jerseys, flowers, and heartfelt messages.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman stated, “Johnny Gaudreau’s untimely passing is a devastating loss for the entire hockey world. His skill on the ice was matched only by his character off it.”

Obituary and Legacy of Johnny Gaudreau

We, NHL Fans always remember to late Johnny not only for his great achievements but also for his impact on the sport.  5’9″ tall, Johnny inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams. Although his successful story became a testament to skill, determination, and hard work trumping physical stature.

The hockey world has lost a true icon, but Johnny Gaudreau’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans alike.

FAQ

Q: What happened to Johnny Gaudreau?

A: Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau died in a bicycle accident near his offseason home in Salem, New Jersey.

Q: How old was Johnny Gaudreau when he died?

A: Johnny Gaudreau was 31 years old at the time of his death.

Q: What teams did Johnny Gaudreau play for in the NHL?

A: Johnny Gaudreau played for the Calgary Flames from 2014 to 2022 and the Columbus Blue Jackets from 2022 until his passing.

Q: What was Johnny Gaudreau’s most successful NHL season?

A: Gaudreau’s most successful season was 2021-22 with the Calgary Flames, where he recorded a career-high 115 points.