Tragedy has struck the hockey world.

American NHLer Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew have died.

The Columbus Blue Jackets released a statement, asking for privacy and prayers for the Gaudreau family.

No cause of death has been revealed, but unconfirmed sources on social media say the brothers were the victims of an accident.

The 31-year-old started his career with the Calgary Flames in 2014, he played in Columbus the last two seasons.

His brother Matthew was 29.