Gaudreau family releases gut-wrenching statement on the passings of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau

It’s been reported and repeated many times since early this morning, and unfortunately it is not a dream. Instead, a living nightmare as Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother Matthew, both tragically died earlier on Friday. The Gaudreaus were struck and killed by a suspected drunk driver while riding their bikes in Salem County, New Jersey, police said. Both brothers died from their injuries.

On Friday early afternoon, one family member, their uncle named Jim Gaudreau, released a statement from the family on the tragic passings of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.

“Last night, we lost two husbands, two fathers, two sons, two brothers, two sons and brothers in law, two nephews, two cousins, two family members, two teammates, two friends, but truly two amazing humans.

“We want to let everyone know we are receiving your messages of love and support and we appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers. We ask for your continued respect and privacy during this very difficult period of grief.”

It is signed From all of our families and the bottom of our hearts (the Gaudreau, Morris, Korbitz, Venello and Joyce families).

Both brothers were set to be groomsmen in the Friday afternoon wedding of the sister, Katie. TMZ has reported that the 1:45 p.m. ceremony at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Gloucester City was canceled in light of the tragedy.

Johnny Gaudreau is survived by his wife, Meredith, his two young children, Noa and Johnny, as well has his parents, Guy and Jane, and sisters Kristen and Katie.