Blue Jackets Star Johnny Gaudreau Dead at Age 31

Yes, I am supposed to be on break. Unfortunately, that break has been forcibly shortened as I have the heartbreaking duty of reporting that Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau is dead. He died at age 31. His brother, Matthew has died too.

According to New Jersey State Police, Johnny and his brother were riding bicycles when they were by a driver around 8:30 p.m. local time. Other reports (not from the police) indicate that the driver may have been drunk. I’ve also seen reports that their sister was to get married today (August 30) and they were in town for that. They were to be groomsmen in the wedding.

The Columbus Blue Jackets released a statement that says in full:

"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 whe 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. At this time, we ask for prayers for the Gaudreau family and that their privacy be respected as they grieve."

This is the second death in just over three years the Blue Jackets organization has suffered the death of one of their players. On July 4, 2021, goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks was killed in a fireworks accident.