Gaudreau brothers remembered one year after the tragic accident

As the calendar turned a year from the heartbreaking crash that claimed the lives of two hockey legends, Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, the global hockey league remembered their deepest contributions, its deep affection, and reverence for the beloved brothers and the values they embodied.Last year, on August 29, 2024, the hockey world was stunned and hearts broke when Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau, aged 31, and his brother Matthew Gaudreau, 29, were killed in a tragic accident. It all happened on the wedding eve of their sister Katie's wedding. Let’s take a look at the horrific incident that claimed the lives of two brothers from the hockey industry.

One year since Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau’s passing away

It’s been a year since Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau’s passing. According to ABC News, Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were killed when they were riding bikes on a rural road in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, on the eve of their sister's wedding, when they were struck by a driver suspected of being under the influence of alcohol, according to police. However, nearly a year later, the memory of Johnny and Matthew continues to shine brightly, sustained by the love of their families, the hockey community, and the meaningful initiatives forged in their honor. As per reports, Friday marks the anniversary of the unthinkable tragedy that rocked the hockey world.

Finding a purpose in the legacy of the Gaudreau brothers

Out of a heartbreaking tragedy, the widows came together to establish the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation in early 2025. The purpose of the organization is to create opportunities for youth hockey, support families grappling with loss, and assist those impacted by drunk driving.

What started as an idea during the funeral has blossomed into a heartfelt tribute to their generous spirits. The wider hockey community has also stepped up to honor the brothers’ legacies. USA Hockey announced that national teams will don helmet decals featuring their names and jersey numbers, 13 for Johnny and 21 for Matthew, encircled by hockey sticks, a powerful symbol of lasting respect and remembrance.

How tributes for the Gaudreau brothers are pouring in on their first anniversary

Tributes have taken place in numerous rinks, in Calgary and Columbus, where Johnny shone for 11 NHL seasons.

Meanwhile, at Boston College, where the Gaudreau brothers played together, in Dubuque, Iowa, and Omaha, Nebraska, their stops in the USHL, and back home in Sewell, New Jersey, where the Hollydell Ice Arena has renamed one of its rinks in their honor.The influence of this remembrance has gone beyond just ceremonies. Cole Caufield of the Montreal Canadiens changed his jersey to Johnny’s No. 13, calling it a personal tribute to his “hero.” Also Read: Are the Maple Leafs considering William Nylander as a replacement for Mitch Marner? | NHL News - Times of IndiaAgain, in Columbus, Johnny’s close friend Sean Monahan and defenseman Zach Werenski paid their respects with tributes on their sticks. Werenski’s design cleverly fused his No. 8 with Johnny’s 13—creating a haloed figure with angel wings, a subtle yet powerful homage to his fallen teammate.