Former New York Rep. Parlyzed After Horseback Riding Accident

Ex-congressman and Buffalo Bills running back paralyzed from chest down

Former New York Rep. John LeBoutillier, 70, is paralyzed from the chest down after falling from a horse while riding on his farm.

LeBoutillier represented New York's 29th Congressional District from 1983 to 1993 and played running back for the Buffalo Bills from 1976 to 1984.

He was injured in a horseback riding accident on his farm in the town of Alexander, New York, on Sunday, July 31, according to the Genesee County Sheriff's Office.

LeBoutillier was airlifted to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, New York, where he underwent surgery. He is currently listed in stable condition.

In a statement, LeBoutillier's family said he is "paralyzed from the chest down and will likely remain so for the rest of his life."

"John is a strong and determined man, and we know he will face this challenge with the same courage and determination he has always shown throughout his life."

LeBoutillier was a key member of the Bills' offense during the team's run to four consecutive Super Bowls in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He was also a member of the Bills' "All-Time Team" that was inducted into the Bills Hall of Fame in 2012.

After retiring from football, LeBoutillier worked as a sportscaster and motivational speaker. He was elected to the New York State Assembly in 2010 and served until 2014. In 2014, LeBoutillier was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served until 2022.

LeBoutillier is married and has two children.