hello everyone this is news today and today we have some tragic news to report NHL star Johnny godo and his brother Matthew have both tragically lost their lives in a car accident in New Jersey I'm Jenny and I'll be bringing you the details of this heartbreaking story Johnny godo a standout forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets was just 31 years old his younger brother Matthew who was 29 was also a professional hockey player with the reading Royals the godo brothers were involved in a devastating accident while riding their bicycles on a rural road in oldsman Township according to New Jersey police the incident occurred when a car struck the brothers from behind the driver identified as Shan Higgins 43 has been arrested and charged with two counts of death by Otto he is currently being held without bond at the Salem County Correctional Facility the Columbus Blue Jackets have expressed their grief calling the accident and unimaginable tragedy in their statement they highlighted Johnny godo's impact both on and off the ice noting he was not only a remarkable hockey player but also a devoted family man Jim goddo the uncle of Johnny and Matthew thanked the public for their support during this difficult time he described the brothers as two amazing humans and acknowledged the profound loss felt by their family and friends police reports indicate that Higgins the driver may have been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash crash the accident occurred as Higgins attempted to pass two other vehicles on the road known by fans as Johnny hockey God's 11-year NHL career included 243 goals and he was celebrated for his joyful play and the energy he brought to the ice he joined the Blue Jackets in 2022 after a successful stint with the Calgary Flames Brian Burke a veteran NHL executive praised godo's kindness and passion for the game reflecting the sentiments of many in the hockey [Music] Community Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also shared his condolences noting gad's special place in the hearts of hockey fans across Canada our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the gdo family during this incredibly difficult time Johnny and Matthew goddo will be remembered for their contributions to hockey and their cherished roles within their families thank you for joining us for this update please leave your condolences and me memories of Johnny and Matthew goddo in the comments below don't forget to like subscribe and hit the notification Bell for more updates from all of us at news today we send our heartfelt condolences to the goddo family