Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his younger brother Matthew Gaudreau, 29, were struck and killed by a suspected drunk driver while riding their bikes Thursday night in Oldmans Township, N.J., police said, according to NBC Philadelphia.
Sean Higgins, 43, of Woodstown, N.J., was driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee north on County Route 551 at 8:19 p.m. ET when he attempted to pass two vehicles and hit the Gaudreau brothers, according to investigators.
Higgins was suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, NBC Philadelphia reported.
Higgins is currently being held in the Salem County Correctional Facility, per the report.
Gaudreau, a seven-time NHL All-Star, leaves behind his wife Meredith, and two children Noa, 1, and Johnny Jr., 6 months.
The Gaudreau brothers were set to take part as groomsmen in their sister Katie’s wedding to hockey player Devin Joyce in Gloucester City, N.J., on Friday.
“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy,” the team said in a statement. “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.”
Gaudreau, who was born in Salem, N.J., played two seasons with the Blue Jackets and nine with the Calgary Flames.
Last season, he appeared in 81 games and recorded 60 points.
