CNN
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NHL player Johnny Gaudreau died in an “unimaginable tragedy,” the Columbus Blue Jackets said Friday. Gaudreau was 31.

The team reported that Gaudreau’s brother, Matthew, has also died.

CNN affiliates WPVI-TV and KYW-TV quote New Jersey State Police officials as confirming that Gaudreau and his brother were the two bicyclists who were struck and killed by a vehicle in Salem County, NJ.

Gaudreau, nicknamed “Johnny Hockey”, was drafted in the fourth round of the 2011 NHL Draft by the Calgary Flames after attending Boston College.

He signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets for the 2022-2023 season and recorded 12 goals and 48 assists last season.

“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy. Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but most importantly, a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend,” the Blue Jackets said in the statement.

“We extend our sincere condolences 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 a passion that was felt by everyone who saw him on the ice. He brought a genuine love of hockey everywhere he played, from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets. He made fans happy in a way that only Johnny Hockey could.

“The impact he had on our organization and our sport was immense, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on all who knew him,” the statement said.

In 11 seasons in the league, Gaudreau had 243 goals and 743 career points, while appearing in the All-Star Game seven times.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said the NHL family is “shocked and saddened” by Gaudreau’s death.

“The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew,” Bettman said.

“While Johnny’s infectious game spirit and impressive skills on the ice earned him the nickname ‘Johnny Hockey,’ he was more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a devoted father and beloved husband, son, brother and teammate who endeared himself to all who were fortunate enough to cross his path.”