Early in the morning on Friday, it was confirmed by both the NHL and the Columbus Blue Jackets that Johnny Gaudreau, and his brother, Matthew Gaudreau have tragically passed away.
Police have finally released some details on the passing of both Gaudreau and his brother. It's reported that a drunk driver hit both Johnny, and Matthew Gaudreau while they were riding bikes in Salem County, New Jersey.
According to investigators Johnny, and Matthew were riding their bikes on Thursday at 8:19 p.m. when Sean Higgins struck them driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee while heading both were heading North on County Route 551.
A police report revealed that Higgins was trying to pass multiple vehicles ahead of him and went into the southbound lane. After that, an SUV in front of Higgins moved into the middle of the roadway to safely pass Johnny and Matthew.
That's when Higgins tried to pass the SUV and while doing so, hit both Matthew and Johnny, who both would ultimately pass away from their injuries.
It was suspected that Higgins was under the influence of alcohol at the time and was placed under arrest by the police, and was charged with two counts of death by auto. At the moment, Higgins is currently lodged in the Salem County Correctional Facility.
After the passing, the NHL released a tragic statement about the news:
Stay tuned for further details.
As seen on Hockeyfeed:Tragic details of Johnny Gaudreau's passing released