COLUMBUS, Ohio — Friday marks one year since Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother Matthew were killed in a tragic crash in their home state of New Jersey.

The brothers were riding their bicycles on Aug. 29, 2024, when police say they were struck from behind by a suspected drunken driver. They had been in the area to celebrate their sister Katie’s wedding.

What happened

According to New Jersey State Police, Johnny and Matthew were cycling when an SUV tried to pass two other vehicles and hit them from behind. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver, Sean M. Higgins, was charged with two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, possession of an open container and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle. Investigators said Higgins admitted to drink

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