Tragic Loss of Johnny Gaudreau and His Brother
COLUMBUS, Ohio — The tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets star winger Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, feels surreal for many. At a vigil outside Nationwide Arena on Friday, fans honored their memories by laying flowers, candy, and candles in a makeshift memorial. The haunting sound of a bagpipe filled the air as the community mourned.
As the regular season approaches, reminders of Gaudreau’s absence will be ever-present, from training camp to the NHL All-Star Game, where he was a familiar face. Players will find it challenging to look at Gaudreau’s locker in the Blue Jackets’ dressing room without recalling cherished memories.
A Senseless Accident
Tragically, the Gaudreau brothers lost their lives on Thursday evening while biking in New Jersey. An allegedly reckless driver, reportedly under investigation for driving under the influence, struck their bicycles while attempting to overtake cars on a two-lane road. This devastating event mirrors the grief the Blue Jackets faced when promising goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks died in a Fourth of July incident two years ago.
Kivlenieks, only 24, was killed when a firework misfired at a gathering for the coaching staff. His unexpected death left a profound hole in the team, and players recall how deeply it affected them when training camp resumed. The cannon blast at Nationwide Arena, a pre-game tradition, serves as a painful reminder for those who witnessed Kivlenieks’ tragic end.
Memorials and Grief Support
In honor of Kivlenieks, the Blue Jackets organized a funeral, ensuring that teammates could attend by flying his parents to Columbus. On October 14, 2022, the team raised Kivlenieks’ No. 80 jersey in remembrance, demonstrating the emotional impact of losing a fellow player.
With training camp starting September 18, the team has little time to cope with Gaudreau’s death. The brothers were set to be groomsmen at their sister Katie’s wedding the same day — a day now shrouded in sorrow. Much like Kivlenieks, who had stayed for the Fourth of July festivities only to face tragedy, the Gaudreau brothers fell victim to reckless behavior.
As players arrive in Columbus ahead of camp, many will change their plans to attend the Gaudreau brothers’ funeral. Grief counselors have been made available to support any team member needing assistance during this difficult time.
Continuing the Legacy of Loss
The Blue Jackets are expected to honor Gaudreau in significant ways during their first home game on October 15 against Florida. Discussions surrounding retiring his No. 13 jersey are underway, reflecting the impact he had on the team and community.
The Blue Jackets have faced numerous tragedies throughout their history, including the heartbreaking incident involving a young fan in 2002, and the suicide of minor-leaguer Trevor Ettinger a year later. These incidents have created a complex environment in the dressing room, especially for new General Manager Don Waddell and Coach Dean Evason, as they navigate this immense grief.
Each player will handle this loss in their own way, drawing on personal experiences as they support one another through this painful journey. This tragic pattern is something no organization wants to face; unfortunately, for Waddell and the Blue Jackets, it is an all too familiar reality.
Source and credits: www.nytimes.com
Cats:
