Unconfirmed reports late this evening that Johnny Gaudreau has tragically died

An absolutely horrifying rumor is circulating on hockey social media this evening. While we cannot verify if this rumor is true just yet, we feel compelled to report on the frenzy that's playing out on social media regarding this rumor.

Twitter users Dylan Robillard and Steve Franklin have both reported this evening that Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and a family member were both involved in a vehicle crash while cycling in Salem County, New Jersey and have both died.

From Robillard and Franklin:

Police have not released the names of the victim in this terrible tragedy.

The report from local ABC 6 News:

OLDMANS TWP., New Jersey (WPVI) -- Two bicyclists were struck and killed by a driver on Thursday night in Salem County, New Jersey.

It happened around 8:30 p.m. on Pennsville Auburn Road near Stumpy Lane in Oldmans Township.

According to New Jersey State Police, the driver did stay at the scene.

There was no immediate word on the identities of the victims.

Further details on the crash have not been released.

As the report says, no further details on the crash have been released.

It's worth noting that no reputable NHL insiders or news breakers are discussing this rumor. It appears that the only two people reporting this news as factual are both Robillard and Franklin, so... take that for what it's worth.

UPDATE: Former NHL referee Tim Peel is reporting that Gaudreau has indeed died.

Until we hear confirmation one way or another from a more reputable source, we'll continue to pursue this rumor and report on it as only a rumor until confirmed. Obviously, our thoughts and prayers are with Gaudreau and his family at this time. Standby for updates on this developing story.

Until then, this rumor continues to spread like wildfire online.

Again, until we get official confirmation all we can do is read online reports. The rumor seems to be circulating on Twitter (X) for the most part, but this Reddit thread is also following the story as it develops: