The Columbus Blue Jackets have confirmed the death of American hockey star Johnny Gaudreau also known as Johnny Hockey, hours after he trended all over social media over alleged news of his death in a car accident. He was 31.
Reports went viral all over X (formerly Twitter) claiming that the Columbus Blue Jackets star was killed in an accident alongside his brother Matthew after they were hit by a car while riding their bicycles near their family home in New Jersey.
According to reports, the accident happened Thursday night around 8:30 p.m. when the brothers were riding their bikes on Pennsville Auburn Road in Oldmans Township in Salem County, New Jersey.
While riding, they were hit by a suspected drunk driver and both lost their lives. Reports say the driver stayed on-scene following the crash.
Johnny and Matt, who both live outside Salem, had come back home to attend their sister Katie’s wedding on Friday.
After hours of speculation and rumor mongering, the Columbus Blue Jackets confirmed the death of Johnny Hockey.
“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,” a statement from the organization read.