"We lost two husbands, two fathers, two sons": Gaudreau family issues heartfelt statement after the tragic passing of Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau

By Ankit Kumar

Modified Aug 30, 2024 18:47 GMT

Jim Gaudreau, uncle of Matthew and Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau, released a statement after the brothers' tragic deaths on Thursday. Reporter Dan Roche the statement on X.

“Last night we lost two husbands, two fathers, two sons, two brothers, two sons and brothers-in-law, two nephews, two cousins, two family members, two teammates, two friends, but truly two amazing humans.” Jim Gaudreau said in his statement.

Jim thanked everyone for their messages of love and support. The family appreciates the continued thoughts and prayers. He asked for privacy as they grieve.

"We want to let everyone know we are receiving your messages of love and support and we appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers. We ask for your continued respect and privacy during this very difficult period of grief. From all our families and the bottom of our hearts (the Gaudreau, Morris, Korbitz, Venello and Joyce Families)," he added.

Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew, 29, died in a biking accident on Thursday in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. They were home to be groomsmen at their sister’s wedding. They were biking when a driver, suspected of being under the influence of alcohol, hit them. The driver, Sean M. Higgins, has been charged by the police for two counts of death.

NHLPA's statement on Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew's death

The NHLPA also grieved the loss of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh shared the sadness felt by the hockey community. Johnny was loved in Calgary and Columbus. He had a remarkable 10-year NHL career and played 763 games.

In his statement, Walsh said (via NHL.com):

“The NHLPA joins the hockey community in mourning the tragic loss of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew. Johnny was a beloved teammate and friend in both Calgary and Columbus, and he was a joy to watch."

Johnny had a successful college career at Boston College. He won the Hobey Baker Award in 2014. His brother Matthew also played professional hockey in the AHL and ECHL.

"The players and staff of the NHLPA are devastated by these terrible losses. We express our sincerest condolences to the entire Gaudreau family," the statement read.

Johnny was picked by the Calgary Flames in 2011 and had seven NHL All-Star appearances. He won the Lady Byng Trophy in 2017. He scored 743 points in 763 regular-season NHL games and 33 in 42 playoff games. His best season was 2021-22, with 115 points. Johnny ranks fifth in Flames history with 609 points.