Columbus Blue Jackets Fans and Players Mourn the Loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau at Emotional Vigil
On a somber Wednesday evening in Columbus, Ohio, fans and players of the Columbus Blue Jackets came together for a candlelight vigil to honor the memory of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. The Gaudreau brothers tragically lost their lives when they were struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding bicycles in their home state of New Jersey. The emotional gathering took place outside the team’s arena, Nationwide Arena, where approximately 1,000 individuals gathered to pay their respects.
A Touching Tribute
As the clock struck 7:49 p.m., the crowd was asked to light their candles in honor of Johnny and Matthew. For the next 13 minutes and 21 seconds, symbolizing Johnny’s jersey number 13 and Matthew’s number 21, the attendees stood in solemn silence. A moving slideshow played on a nearby screen, showcasing images of the brothers from their childhood, through their teenage years, college hockey, professional careers, marriages, and other moments filled with joy and love.
The memorial display, measuring 20 feet deep and 40 feet wide, was adorned with jerseys, candles, balloons, stuffed animals, Gatorade bottles, and heartfelt signage. Blue Jackets players, including captain Boone Jenner, defenseman Erik Gudbranson, and forward Cole Sillinger, took turns sharing memories and anecdotes about Johnny Gaudreau.
Erik Gudbranson, who had known Gaudreau since their time as teammates with the Calgary Flames, reminisced about their bond and the impact Johnny had on his life. Gudbranson’s recollection of Gaudreau’s habit of being the first to leave the locker room and his reluctance to express his feelings drew both laughter and tears from the crowd.
“A little thing I did with John is I’d pick him up and give him a bear hug, and I wouldn’t put him down until he told me he loved me,” Gudbranson shared with the audience. “He wouldn’t tell me for a long time. I know up here it was because he enjoyed the hug. We just miss him so much.”
As the candlelight vigil drew to a close, the crowd began chanting “Johnny Hockey, Johnny Hockey, Johnny Hockey” in unison. At 8:08 p.m., the players made their way back inside the arena, standing together in solidarity as they continued to mourn the loss of their beloved teammate and friend.
Moving Forward as a Team
Earlier in the day, players and general manager Don Waddell addressed the media, expressing their grief and determination to support the Gaudreau family during this difficult time. Waddell acknowledged the challenge of moving forward without Johnny and Matthew, emphasizing the need for unity and resilience within the team.
“While there’s a huge hole in our lineup, there’s an even bigger one in our hearts,” Waddell remarked. “Our immediate focus is on supporting the Gaudreau family and supporting each other as we continue to grieve the loss of Johnny and Matthew.”
Boone Jenner, the team’s captain, emphasized the importance of coming together as a collective unit to navigate the emotional aftermath of the tragedy. Jenner reassured his teammates that they would persevere and honor Johnny’s memory by supporting one another through the grieving process.
“As a team, we’re going to get through this together,” Jenner affirmed. “We’re going to grieve, cry, be vulnerable, and support each other every step of the way. But we will persevere because I know that’s what Johnny would’ve wanted.”
A Legacy of Inspiration
Erik Gudbranson reflected on the profound impact Johnny Gaudreau had on his life, highlighting the unique bond they shared on and off the ice. Gaudreau’s decision to sign with the Blue Jackets in 2022, despite other lucrative offers, demonstrated his commitment to the team and the city of Columbus.
Zach Werenski, a fellow defenseman, praised Gaudreau for his infectious energy and dedication to the Columbus community. Werenski noted that Gaudreau’s presence had brought immense joy and excitement to the city, leaving a lasting impression on his teammates and fans alike.
The Tragic Accident
The Gaudreau brothers’ lives were cut short on a fateful night in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when they were struck by a drunk driver while cycling. The driver, identified as 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins, was charged with two counts of death by auto, along with other offenses related to the accident.
Erik Gudbranson issued a heartfelt plea to the public, urging individuals to refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol. His impassioned message emphasized the importance of making responsible choices to prevent further tragedies like the one that claimed the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.
A Community in Mourning
The impact of the Gaudreau brothers’ untimely deaths reverberated throughout the hockey community, with players, fans, and officials coming together to offer support and condolences. Marty Walsh, the executive director of the NHLPA, acknowledged the widespread grief and tributes pouring in from across the league and beyond.
“The deaths of Johnny and his brother are impacting a lot of players in the league as a whole and obviously is impacting their alma mater, Boston College, and the people in Boston,” Walsh stated. “The tributes are beautiful to see. We’ve just got to continue to support the family the best we can.”
As the hockey world mourns the loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, their legacy of love, passion, and camaraderie lives on in the hearts of those who knew them. The candlelight vigil in Columbus served as a poignant reminder of the profound impact these brothers had on the lives of many, both on and off the ice. Their memory will forever be cherished and honored by the Blue Jackets community and beyond.