Former Calgary Flames player Johnny Gaudreau, brother Matthew killed in New Jersey collision

NHL star and former Calgary Flames player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau were killed in a collision in New Jersey on Thursday.

New Jersey Police said they were riding their bikes when they were struck by an SUV. The driver of the vehicle was "suspected of being under the influence of alcohol," police said.

Global's Michael King reports.

#GlobalNews #JohnnyGaudreau #NHL #calgaryflames

[PATCARSON-lv]

How heartbreaking. To lose two brothers in their prime with so much more life to live. Condolences to their families and loved ones.

[ericschroeder]

We could nearly eliminate drunk driving deaths by simply making it a mandatory 5 year prison sentence for a DUI 1st offence, doubling with each subsequent DUI. Why would the rights of drunks and negligent killers be more important than dealing with this issue?

[heatherwhaley]

This is just awful. So many stupid drivers on the road these days!

[charlesward]

A huge loss of a truly decent human being and his brother! RIP boys!

[LupusMobile]

Might be from Edmonton but I have the ultimate respect for our rivals from Calgary. Deepest condolences to the Gaudreaus, and the family, friends and community that fostered their growth. We are truly sorry for this loss.

[bobbiedylan]

I’m in Edmonton and our hearts are with Johnny G’s family, friends and fans. This is heartbreaking 🤦🏾‍♂️

[Rizu-ww]

Horrible news. Can't even imagine what their mom and dad are going through. Father loses 2 son's in a blink of an eye and 2 son's lose a father in a blink of an eye and of the eve of their sister's wedding.

Rest in peace Gaudreau brothers, #13 jersey will be proudly worn as a Flames fan. Heartbreaking 💔

[Flamsterette]

I can't believe this.... such devastating news.

[mark-dietz]

The ripple effects from tragedies like this are immeasurable. Parents outliving children is horrible. Their sister lost a brother. The wedding day is now the saddest memory possible. His kids lost a father. His extended family, cousins and friends lost Johnny. Sean Monahan was to be reunited with Johnny this season. Flames, Blue Jackets, and the entire NHL lost a beloved player. Even the family of the drunk driver will be devastated, all because of a drunk behind the wheel.
How terribly sad.
RIP Johnny, and Mathew.

[chrispswann]

From ESPN: "According to the probable cause affidavit, Higgins told police that he had five or six beers before the crash and had tried to go around the SUV on the right side after thinking the other vehicle was trying to block him from passing. He told police his drinking contributed to "his impatience and reckless driving." Higgins failed a field sobriety test, according to the affidavit"

WOW

[FriedrichMeier]

everyone driving is in such a rush and cant help to make the worst decision to save a few seconds its crazy

[tas]

This news is SO devastating, I cannot imagine being apart of this family dealing with these senseless death (s) It felt like a gut punch to me, and I am a hockey fan, No Im not close to either of them but know them as hockey players and mostly JG, but when you are given a nick name in the NHL, like johnny was, you just know that he is special. RIP Johnny Hockey and RIP to Matthew, his brother who played hockey as well, I Hope there is a forever goalie to meet you both to play forever. I can only wish healing thoughts to his family and friends.

[ronaldgould]

I've been a Calgary flames fan since Atlanta I'm truly heartbroken and crying I'm truly sad

[leahsyl]

This is absolutely heartbreaking! Johnny had a wife and two young children and Matthew was married and his wife is almost six months pregnant. As well as his sister who is supposed to be married today. How do you make that decision on whether you get married or wait until a better time. I’m sure a lot of family members are there for the wedding, so hopefully the whole family has massive amounts of support during this tragic time.
RIP Johnny and Matthew 😢🕊️💔🙏 🇨🇦

[sash]

This is devastating !!!! Condolences to the family

[jameswight]

2 cyclists hit on a rural road, man, smh, that’s nuts

[Deem]

Shocked and sad to hear about this tragedy! My condolences to his family, friends, team mates and former team mates.

[BrentHann-de]

That's Just So Terrible, My Heart Goes Out To Family And Friends, My Prayer's To All Of You

[margaretjohnston]

This is aweful! I am so sorry to the families for your loss, just heartbreaking.😢

[georgecamero]

How tragic for the family and all involved