Tragic details of Johnny Gaudreau’s passing released

Earlier on Friday, the NHL and the Columbus Blue Jackets shared the devastating news that forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, 29-year-old Matthew Gaudreau have died suddenly.

Now police have released details on the tragedy. The Gaudreaus were struck and killed by a suspected drunk driver while riding their bikes in Salem County, New Jersey, police said. They were riding their bikes north on County Route 551 in Oldmans Township on Thursday at 8:19 p.m. At the same time, Sean Higgins, 43, of Woodstown, New Jersey, was driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee north on County Route 551, according to investigators.

According to the police report, Higgins tried to pass two vehicles ahead of him and entered the southbound lanes, police said. An SUV in front of Higgins moved to the middle of the roadway, splitting the north and south lanes in order to safely pass the Gaudreau brothers as they rode their bikes on the right side of the road, according to investigators.

Higgins then tried to pass the SUV and struck the Gaudreau brothers, police added. Both brothers died from their injuries.

Investigators said Higgins was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol, and was arrested. He charged with two counts of death by auto and is currently lodged in the Salem County Correctional Facility.

The NHL confirmed the tragic news Friday morning and released a statement: 

“The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew,” NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said in the statement. “While Johnny’s infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname ‘Johnny Hockey,’ he was more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a doting father and beloved husband, son, brother and teammate who endeared himself to every person fortunate enough to have crossed his path.”

More to come.