Tragic Accident Claims Lives of Former Boston College Hockey Stars Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau

In a devastating turn of events, former Boston College hockey star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were killed in a bike accident on Thursday night in New Jersey, according to police. The news sent shockwaves through the Boston College community, where the Gaudreau brothers were highly respected and cherished.

Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and Matthew Gaudreau, 29, were enjoying a bike ride together in Oldmans Township when they were struck by a Jeep driven by an alleged drunk driver. The driver remained at the scene and was taken into custody. The brothers were set to be groomsmen at their sister's wedding the following day, heightening the tragedy of their untimely deaths.

Johnny Gaudreau made a name for himself as a star player during his three-year tenure at Boston College from 2011 to 2014. His exceptional skills on the ice earned him the nickname "Johnny Hockey." Gaudreau was part of the Boston College team that won a national title in 2012, and he also received two consecutive Hockey East Player of the Year awards. In his junior season, he was honored with the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, recognizing him as the best player in college hockey. Following his successful college career, Gaudreau went on to play 11 seasons in the NHL, becoming a seven-time All-Star.

Matthew Gaudreau, likewise a talented player, spent four years at Boston College from 2013 to 2017. Although the brothers played together for just one season, their impact on the team and the sport extended far beyond their personal achievements. Both Johnny and Matthew were known for their humility, kindness, and camaraderie, qualities that made them beloved by teammates and coaches alike.

The news of their tragic accident has left the Boston College community in mourning. Longtime Eagles head coach Jerry York fondly remembered Johnny Gaudreau as not only an exceptional player but also a down-to-earth individual who garnered respect from everyone around him. Current head coach Greg Brown praised the Gaudreau brothers for their infectious joy, glowing personalities, and their ability to make everyone feel like family.

Heartfelt condolences poured in from various hockey teams and organizations. The Columbus Blue Jackets, with whom Johnny Gaudreau had recently signed, expressed their shock and devastation, emphasizing his impact on the game and his loving nature off the ice. The Calgary Flames, where Gaudreau spent nine seasons, described him as not just a superstar player but also a treasured member of the community.

The National Hockey League (NHL) community joined in expressing their sorrow at the loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman acknowledged Johnny's remarkable skills on the ice, but stressed that he was so much more than just a hockey player. He was a dedicated family man, a cherished friend, and a beloved teammate.

The Gaudreau brothers' tragic passing has created a void that will be felt by all who knew them. Their immense talent and achievements on the ice will forever be remembered, but it is their kindness, humility, and infectious joy that will leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with them.

The Boston College community and the hockey world as a whole mourn the loss of these two remarkable individuals.