Johnny Gaudreau was one of the most beloved and electrifying hockey players of his generation, known affectionately by fans as Johnny Hockey.
Over an 11‑season career in the National Hockey League (NHL), he became famous for his speed, skill, and playmaking ability, despite being smaller than many of his peers.
He starred first with the Calgary Flames, then with the Columbus Blue Jackets, earning multiple All‑Star selections and the NHL’s Lady Byng Trophy for sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct.
On August 29, 2024, Johnny and his younger brother Matthew Gaudreau, who was also a hockey player, were cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey.
They were in their home state to attend their sister’s wedding and were expected to be groomsmen at the event the following day.
While they rode their bicycles along a rural road in the early evening, a vehicle driven by a man later suspected of being intoxicated attempted to pass two slower cars and struck the brothers from behind. Both Johnny, age 31, and Matthew, age 29, were pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver, Sean M. Higgins, was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, possession of an open container and other related offenses.
Prosecutors alleged he had consumed alcohol before the crash and failed a field sobriety test at the scene. As of early 2026, the case remained pending through the criminal justice process.
The deaths of Johnny and Matthew shocked the hockey world and brought an outpouring of tributes from teammates, rival players, fans, and NHL leadership.
Many remembered Johnny not only for his on‑ice brilliance but also for his infectious personality, kindness and love for his family.
This is actual brotherhood. NHL star Johnny Gaudreau was killed by a drunk driver before he could play for this Olympic team.
— Desiree (@DesireeAmerica4) February 24, 2026
When Team USA won gold yesterday, they didn’t just hold his jersey. They pulled his two babies onto the ice and put them right in the center of the… pic.twitter.com/ZuDXHjOCBT
Recently, the U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team honoured him at the 2026 Winter Olympics by displaying his No. 13 jersey and dedicating its gold‑medal run in his memory.
Johnny Gaudreau kids were brought on‑ice during the celebration, and teammates and coaches spoke about the emotional impact of Johnny’s legacy on his former and current colleagues.
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