An unimaginable and tragic stroke of fate has shattered the tightly bound Gdo family just hours before they were to partake in a joyous occasion. The beloved NHL star Johnny Gdo, a player for the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his younger brother Matthew lost their lives in a tragic accident on County Route 551 North in New Jersey. The incident took place less than 24 hours before their sister Katie was to marry a man named Devon Joyce in a ritual much anticipated not just by Katie and her intended but by the whole family.

The beloved brothers were struck and killed by a driver suspected of being under the influence—saw this chilling moment unfold. Eyewitnesses saw the driver attempt a dangerous pass. He struck the brothers and kept going. That driver is now identified as Shan M. Higgins. Higgins has been charged with two counts of death by auto. Now our friends at Boston College and the Columbus Blue Jackets express their grief and sorrow. They have lost two young men who played the game at a high level and who, we assume, would have played it for many more years.

Thanks for coming to pay your respects to the Gdo brothers. Johnny was a very dedicated and successful athlete who brought so much joy to his family and friends. It was equally a pleasure to know his brother Matthew, who was so talented in so many ways. These young men have left an unbelievable void in the lives of many. Please keep their whole family in your prayers during this very difficult time. And also keep all their friends in your prayers.

As this heartbreaking calamity continues to develop, the next of kin, the Gdo family, is our foremost concern. We think of them and grieve with them in a manner that dwarfs and renders inane any consideration of this as a possible news story for the future.