The Columbus Blue Jackets recently paid tribute to Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, who were both killed by a suspected drunk driver in late August in New Jersey. The brothers were cycling when they were struck by a vehicle driven by Sean M. Higgins, a 43-year-old Iraq War veteran.
During the emotional ceremony at Nationwide Arena on Tuesday, the Blue Jackets honored Johnny Gaudreau by unveiling a banner in his memory. The banner featured the hockey star’s number 13 and “1993-2024.” The Blue Jackets, who were playing against the Florida Panthers that day, also left Johnny’s position empty on the ice for the first 13 seconds of the game.
Johnny’s widow, Meredith, who is expecting their third child, delivered a pre-recorded message thanking fans for their support and encouraging them to be inspired by Johnny’s life.
“I don’t want anyone to be sad. I want you all to be inspired by the life that John lived, that means love your family first and foremost. And when it’s time to drop the puck, let’s love the game that John loved. Thank you and go Jackets,” she said in the video.
The accident occurred just one day before the Gaudreau siblings’ sister’s wedding. Prosecutors have charged Higgins with two counts of death by auto. He also faces charges of reckless driving, possessing an open container of alcohol in a vehicle, and consuming alcohol while driving. Each count of death by auto carries a potential 10-year prison sentence.
The Associated Press reports that, according to the criminal complaint, Higgins admitted to drinking “five or six beers” before driving and continuing to drink while on the road. His blood alcohol level was recorded at 0.087, above New Jersey’s legal limit of 0.08.
The exact speed at which Higgins was traveling hasn’t been officially disclosed, but prosecutors indicate it was likely above the 50 mph speed limit. Witnesses estimated their own speeds at around 55 mph, suggesting Higgins may have been going even faster as he attempted to pass them before the collision.
You can watch the full tribute video for Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew below.