Fans and Columbus Blue Jackets players gathered for an emotional candlelight vigil outside the team’s arena Wednesday night to remember Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, who tragically lost their lives last week after being struck by a suspected drunk driver while riding bicycles in their home state of New Jersey.
The crowd of roughly 1,000 assembled outside Nationwide Arena, igniting their candles at 7:49 p.m. For the next 13 minutes and 21 seconds — symbolizing Johnny’s jersey No. 13 and Matthew’s No. 21 — they stood in solemn remembrance. A nearby video screen displayed a poignant slideshow of the brothers, tracing their journey from childhood to college hockey, through their professional careers, marriages, baptisms, and lives filled with joy and love.
Surrounded by a 20-foot deep and 40-foot wide memorial adorned with jerseys, candles, balloons, stuffed animals, Gatorade bottles, and heartfelt messages, players including captain Boone Jenner, defenseman Erik Gudbranson, and forward Cole Sillinger shared personal memories and the inspirations they drew from knowing Johnny Gaudreau.
Gudbranson, who had known Gaudreau the longest from their days as teammates with the Calgary Flames, lightened the somber mood with anecdotes of Gaudreau’s notorious tardiness to team meetings and his swift post-game exits. “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 recounted with a smile. “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 timer counted down and candle wax mingled with tears on the bricks outside the arena, the silence was broken by chants of “Johnny Hockey, Johnny Hockey, Johnny Hockey.” At 8:08, the players moved inside the building as one. A similar vigil took place in Calgary, where Johnny Gaudreau had played for nearly a decade.
Earlier that day in Columbus, players and general manager Don Waddell grappled with the profound loss. “While there’s a huge hole in our lineup, there’s an even bigger one in our hearts,” Waddell said, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the team’s future. “Our immediate focus is on supporting the Gaudreau family and each other as we grieve the loss of Johnny and Matthew.”
Captain Boone Jenner emphasized the need for collective strength. “As a team, we’re going to get through this together. 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.”
Gudbranson reflected on his unique bond with Gaudreau. “You will continue to inspire me to be just like you,” he said.
Gaudreau had turned down a more lucrative offer from the New Jersey Devils to sign a $68.25 million, seven-year contract with the Blue Jackets in 2022. Defenseman Zach Werenski highlighted Gaudreau’s decision and his impact on Columbus. “You brought so much joy and excitement to this city. I’ve never quite seen anything like it.”
The Gaudreau brothers were cycling on a road in Oldmans Township on Thursday night when a man driving an SUV attempted to pass two other vehicles and struck them from behind at about 8 p.m., New Jersey State Police reported. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver, 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins, was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and faces charges including two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, possession of an open container, and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle.
Gudbranson concluded his statement with a heartfelt plea against drunk driving. “If you think about driving after a few beers or a fun night, please, please, please do not. Find a way home.”
At the annual NHLPA rookie showcase outside Washington, union executive director Marty Walsh remarked on the broad impact of the tragic incident. “The deaths of Johnny and his brother are affecting many players throughout the league and their alma mater, Boston College. The tributes are beautiful to see. We must continue to support the family the best we can.”
