Current:Home > ContactBlue Jackets players, GM try to make sense of tragedy after deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau -MacroWatch
Blue Jackets players, GM try to make sense of tragedy after deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau
Indexbit Exchange View
Date:2025-04-11 00:49:48
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Just three weeks before the opening of training camp, the Columbus Blue Jackets are seeking to make sense of a senseless tragedy after All-Star winger Johnny Gaudreau and younger brother Matthew died when they were struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding bicycles 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 about the 31-year-old before a nighttime candlelight vigil that will include 13 minutes, 21 seconds of silent remembrance in honor of Johnny and Matthew’s jersey numbers.
“While there’s a huge hole in our lineup, there’s an even bigger one in our hearts,” Waddell said, acknowledging 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 their 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’re going to get through this together,” Jenner said. “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.”
Defensemen Erik Gudbranson said that while he has struggled to find consistent connections with many teammates, Gaudreau’s unique way of driving him crazy brought them together.
“You will continue to inspire me to be just like you,” Gudbranson said.
Gaudreau turned down more money from the New Jersey Devils to sign a $68.25 million, seven-year contract with the Blue Jackets in 2022.
Defensemen Zach Werenski highlighted Gaudreau’s decision to move and embrace the city of Columbus.
“You brought so much joy and excitement to this city,” Werenski said. “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 in the same direction attempted to pass two other vehicles and struck them from behind at about 8 p.m., according to New Jersey State Police. They were pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said the driver, 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins, was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and charged with two counts of death by auto, along with reckless driving, possession of an open container and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle.
Gudbranson ended his statement with a message to people considering driving while under the influence of alcohol.
“If you think about driving after a few beers or a fun night, please, please, please do not,” Gudbranson said. “Find a way home.”
At the annual NHLPA rookie showcase outside Washington, union executive director Marty Walsh said the tragic situation was having wide-ranging effects around hockey.
“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 said. “The tributes are beautiful to see. We’ve just got to continue to support the family the best we can.”
___
AP Hockey Writer Stephen Whyno in Arlington, Virginia, contributed to this report.
___
AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/NHL
veryGood! (26)
Related
- South Korean president's party divided over defiant martial law speech
- New Jersey school bus monitor charged with manslaughter after allegedly using phone as disabled girl suffocated
- Special counsel continues focus on Trump in days after sending him target letter
- Researchers Say Science Skewed by Racism is Increasing the Threat of Global Warming to People of Color
- Selena Gomez engaged to Benny Blanco after 1 year together: 'Forever begins now'
- Chicago Mayor Slow to Act on Promises to Build Green Economy by Repurposing Polluted Industrial Sites
- Hawaii's lawmakers mull imposing fees to pay for ecotourism crush
- Rep. Tony Gonzales, who represents 800 miles of U.S.-Mexico border, calls border tactics not acceptable
- Civic engagement nonprofits say democracy needs support in between big elections. Do funders agree?
- Warming Trends: British Morning Show Copies Fictional ‘Don’t Look Up’ Newscast, Pinterest Drops Climate Misinformation and Greta’s Latest Book Project
Ranking
- Residents worried after ceiling cracks appear following reroofing works at Jalan Tenaga HDB blocks
- Cash App creator Bob Lee, 43, is killed in San Francisco
- In historic move, Biden nominates Adm. Lisa Franchetti as first woman to lead Navy
- Maya Millete's family, friends continue the search for missing mom: I want her to be found
- Senate begins final push to expand Social Security benefits for millions of people
- Body believed to be of missing 2-year-old girl found in Philadelphia river
- Airline passengers could be in for a rougher ride, thanks to climate change
- The job market is cooling as higher interest rates and a slowing economy take a toll
Recommendation
Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie return for an 'Encore,' reminisce about 'The Simple Life'
Travis Scott Will Not Face Criminal Charges Over Astroworld Tragedy
NPR quits Twitter after being falsely labeled as 'state-affiliated media'
The New US Climate Law Will Reduce Carbon Emissions and Make Electricity Less Expensive, Economists Say
Megan Fox's ex Brian Austin Green tells Machine Gun Kelly to 'grow up'
Margot Robbie Channels OG Barbie With Sexy Vintage Look
Now on Hold, Georgia’s Progressive Program for Rooftop Solar Comes With a Catch
45 Lululemon Finds I Predict Will Sell Out 4th of July Weekend: Don’t Miss These Buys Starting at $9