With just three weeks until training camp opens, the Columbus Blue Jackets are looking to make sense of a senseless tragedy after All-Star winger Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother Matthew died after being struck by an alleged drunk driver while riding their bikes in their home state of New Jersey.
President of hockey operations and general manager Don Waddell and four of Johnny Gaudreau’s teammates spoke to reporters Wednesday at Nationwide Arena to share their feelings for the 31-year-old ahead of a nighttime candlelight vigil that will include 13 minutes and 21 seconds of silent remembrance in honour of Johnny and Matthew’s jersey numbers.
“While there is a huge void in our lineup, there is an even bigger void in our hearts,” Waddell said, acknowledging that questions remain about how the team will move forward. “Our immediate focus is on supporting the Gaudreau family and supporting each other as we continue to grieve the loss of Johnny and Matthew.”
Waddell said the team will look to its leaders, including center and captain Boone Jenner.
Jenner said the Blue Jackets must persevere and support each other as a collective unit.
“As a team, we will get through this together,” Jenner said. “We will 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 have wanted.”
Defenseman Erik Gudbranson said that while he’s struggled to consistently connect with many teammates, Gaudreau’s unique way of driving him crazy has brought them closer together.
“You will continue to inspire me to be like you,” Gudbranson said.
Gaudreau turned down more money from the New Jersey Devils to sign a seven-year, $68.25 million contract with the Blue Jackets in 2022.
Defenseman Zach Werenski highlighted Gaudreau’s decision to relocate and adopt the city of Columbus.
“You have brought so much joy and enthusiasm to this city,” Werenski said. “I have never seen anything like it.”
The Gaudreau brothers were riding their bikes on a road in Oldmans Township Thursday night when a man driving an SUV in the same direction tried to pass two other vehicles and struck them from behind around 8 p.m., according to New Jersey State Police. They were pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said the driver, Sean M. Higgins, 43, was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and charged with two counts of death by motor vehicle, as well as reckless driving, possession of an open container and consumption of alcohol in a motor vehicle.
Gudbranson ended his statement with a message to people considering driving under the influence of alcohol.
“If you’re thinking about driving after a few beers or a fun night out, please, please don’t,” Gudbranson said. “Find a way to get home.”
At the NHLPA’s annual rookie presentation outside Washington, union executive director Marty Walsh said the tragic situation has far-reaching implications for the game of hockey.
“The loss of Johnny and his brother impacts a lot of players across the league and obviously impacts their alma mater, Boston College, and the people of Boston,” Walsh said. “The tributes are great to see. We just have to continue to support the family in the best way we can.”
Police said the driver was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and charged with two counts of death by vehicle and booked into the Salem County Correctional Facility in New Jersey.
AP hockey writer Stephen Whyno in Arlington, Virginia, contributed to this report.
