Poppy Bilderbeck
Columbus Blue Jackets hockey star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew have passed away.
Yesterday, August 29, the 31-year-old National Hockey League (NHL) star and his 29-year-old brother were riding their bicycles in Oldmans Township, Salem County, New Jersey when they were struck by a car and killed, New Jersey State Police confirmed.
Police told CBS News Philadelphia the pair had been riding their bikes along County Route 551 at around 8:00pm when they were struck by a man driving a Jeep who had reportedly been trying to overtake a slower vehicle.
The driver - Sean M Higgins - has been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, PEOPLE reports.
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The brothers are believed to have passed away just days before their sister's wedding, set to take place today (August 30) where they were meant to be taking on the role of groomsmen.
UNILAD has contacted New Jersey State Police for comment.
NHL's Columbus Blue Jackets confirmed the news in a statement shared to Twitter.
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The statement reads: "The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy. Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. We extend our heartfelt sympathies 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 great joy which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice. He brought a genuine love for hockey with him everywhere he played from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets. He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could.
"The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him.
"Johnny embraced our community when he arrived two years ago, and Columbus welcomed him with open arms. We will miss him terribly and do everything that we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy."
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Johnny is survived by his wife, Meredith, and the pair have two children, one-year-old Noa and six-month-old Johnny. Matthew's wife is called Madeline.
Columbus Blue Jacket's statement resolves: "At this time, we ask for prayers for the Gaudreau family and that their privacy be respected as they grieve."
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact The Compassionate Friends on (877) 969-0010.