NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were tragically killed Thursday night when they were struck by a suspected drunk driver while riding their bicycles, authorities confirmed.

Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and Matthew Gaudreau, 29, were riding bicycles in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when a driver attempting to pass another car fatally struck the brothers, New Jersey State Police Sergeant Jeffrey Lebron said in a statement Friday.

The driver was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and was charged with two counts of vehicular homicide, Lebron said. He was booked into the Salem County Correctional Facility.

Gaudreau’s team, the Columbus Blue Jackets, expressed regret at the loss in a statement Friday morning.

“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 statement said. “We extend our sincere condolences to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their families and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew.”

Johnny Gaudreau, nicknamed “Johnny Hockey”, was praised for his striking offensive play and exceptional scoring ability.

He played alongside his brother at Boston College before being drafted by the Calgary Flames in 2011, where he quickly became a fan favorite, making seven NHL All-Star Game selections. In 2022, he signed with the Blue Jackets and played for them for two seasons.

“Gaudreau often told the story of how his father taught him to skate as a child in his home state of New Jersey and he carried that same youthful passion with him throughout his 11 NHL seasons,” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement.

“Gaudreau was a skilled playmaker and made seven NHL All-Star Game appearances. He was always a fan favorite, especially when he showcased his talents in the various skill competitions for which he was so well-suited,” Bettman said.

Police say the investigation into the crash is still ongoing.