NHL standout Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, 29, were killed in a bicycle crash involving a suspected drunk driver in New Jersey just hours before their sister’s wedding, authorities confirmed Friday. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the hockey community and beyond.
The brothers were struck from behind by an SUV driver attempting to overtake vehicles on Thursday evening in Oldmans Township. Police reported the driver, 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins, admitted to consuming 5-6 beers before the crash and failed a sobriety test. Higgins now faces two counts of death by auto and other charges.
Johnny, affectionately nicknamed \"Johnny Hockey,\" was a beloved forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets and previously the Calgary Flames, where he became a fan favorite. His brother Matthew was remembered by Boston College coach Jerry York as \"terrifically admired\" for his character both on and off the ice.
As tributes pour in, the incident renews conversations about road safety and drunk driving. The Gaudreau family had been preparing for sister Katie’s wedding in Philadelphia, now overshadowed by unimaginable loss.
