Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Dion Dawkins was excused from practice today as he had a much more serious matter to tend to.

According to reports from TMZ, a single-engine aircraft crashed in the Pro Bowler’s yard, just feet away from his house in Aurora, New York. The crash occurred at 11:22 AM, after the plane experienced “mechanical issues.”

After crashing into the trees in Dawkins’ yard, the plane went up in flames, leaving the pilot dead. No one else in the area was injured.

Plane crash at Dion Dawkins’ home. (Photos via TMZ & Twitter)

The plane was said to be on its way from Michigan to New York. No further details have been released as the National Transportation safety Board investigates.

Dawkins was allowed to miss practice today to tend to the matter at his home.

Dion Dawkins and the Buffalo Bills Get Set To Take On The New England Patriots

Dawkins will look to put this matter behind him as soon as possible, with his team set to host the Patriots on Sunday.

Buffalo is coming off an impressive victory over the Detroit Lions. It was a much-needed confidence boost after the Bills were handed just their second loss of the season in week 14 against the Rams.

Poke The Bear with Conor Ryan Ep. 187 Conor Ryan is joined by Evan Marinofsky on today’s episode of Poke the Bear to discuss the issue that has been plaguing the Boston Bruins as of late – blowing leads in the third period.

After 3 overtime losses in their last 4 games, the Bruins have an obvious area of focus, but how do they prevent this problem from persisting? This episode of Poke the Bear is brought to you by Fanduel Sportsbook, the exclusive wagering parter of the CLNS Media NetworkRight.

The Garden Report goes live following the Celtics game against the Thunder. Catch the Celtics Postgame Show featuring Bobby Manning, Josue Pavon, Jimmy Toscano, and A. Sherrod Blakely as they offer insights and analysis after Boston’s game vs OKC.