NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and His Brother Matthew, 29, Killed in New Jersey Bike Accident

Mar. 15, 2025

Columbus Blue Jackets hockey player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew have died.

On Thursday, Aug. 29, the NHL star, 31, and Matthew, 29, diedin a bike crashin Oldmans Township, New Jersey, close to their hometown of Salem County, PEOPLE has confirmed. They were reportedly in their hometown to serve as groomsmen in their sister’s wedding on Friday, according to a wedding website.

Brothers Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Gaudreau.Richard T Gagnon/Getty

Richard T Gagnon/Getty

The Blue Jackets confirmed the deaths in a statement sharedto X(formerly known as Twitter) on Friday, Aug. 30.

Johnny Gaudreau.Jason Mowry/Getty

Jason Mowry/Getty

The team shared, “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,” the message concluded.

Johnny and Meredith Gaudreau.Johnny gaudreau/instagram

Johnny gaudreau/instagram

Johnny and Meredith Gaudreau after the birth of their daughter Noa in Oct. 2022.Columbus Blue Jackets/Instagram

Columbus Blue Jackets/Instagram

Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau.Matty Gaudreau/instagram

Matty Gaudreau/instagram

Matthew graduated from Boston College in 2017 and went on to play for several minor league teams, most recently the Worcester Railers in 2022. He had been the head coach of their high school team, Gloucester Catholic High in New Jersey, over the last two years, according toElite Prospects.

source: people.com