NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew, 29 killed in horror New Jersey bicycle accident 'just hours before their sister's wedding'

Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and younger brother Matthew were tragically killed in a bike accident in New Jersey on Thursday night.

Gaudreau, a 31-year-old NHL veteran who had spent the last two seasons with the Blue Jackets, was believed to have been cycling with Matthew, 29, in Oldmans Township when the fatal crash occurred at around 8:30pm.

It is believed the two brothers died on the eve of their sister Katie's wedding.

Columbus released a statement confirming Johnny's passing on Friday morning, admitting they will 'miss him terribly' while expressing their sympathy for his family.

'The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy,' the statement reads. 'Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. We extend our heartfelt sympatheis to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew.'

'Johnny played the game with great joy which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice. He brought a genuine love for hockey with him everywhere he played from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets. He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could. The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him.

'Johnny embraced our community when he arrived two years ago, and Columbus welcomed him with open arms. We will miss him terribly and do everything that we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy.

'At this time, we ask for prayers for the Gaudreau family and that their privacy be respected as they grieve.'

More to follow.