Orchard Park, NY – Chaos briefly erupted outside Highmark Stadium on Sunday afternoon when Orchard Park Police detained a Buffalo Bills fan after witnesses reported a man caused panic among Philadelphia Eagles fans ahead of the Eagles vs. Bills matchup scheduled for 4:25 p.m.

According to Orchard Park Police, the incident occurred near the main tailgate area as Eagles and Bills fans were gathering hours before kickoff. Multiple witnesses stated that the individual, wearing Buffalo Bills apparel, threw a bag toward a group of Eagles fans while yelling, 

“All of you are gonna die!”, triggering immediate fear and confusion throughout the crowd. Several fans quickly alerted stadium security and called 911 as people scattered, fearing a potential threat.

Law enforcement officers immediately secured the surrounding area while bomb technicians examined the suspicious bag. Authorities later confirmed that the backpack was harmless and did not contain explosives, weapons, or hazardous materials. The rapid response helped prevent further escalation and allowed the situation to be brought under control within minutes.

Police soon located and detained the suspect, identified as a 29-year-old Bills fan, near the edge of a nearby parking lot after the crowd dispersed. According to officers, the man claimed he was “just messing around” and did not intend to harm anyone, though his explanation did little to ease the fear experienced by fans who had just endured moments of panic during what was supposed to be a routine pregame tailgate.

The suspect was taken into custody and charged with Disorderly Conduct and making terroristic threats, per Orchard Park Police officials. No injuries were reported, and authorities credited the swift cooperation between fans, stadium security, and local law enforcement for preventing the situation from becoming more dangerous.

Officials emphasized that the safety of all fans remains the top priority, particularly during high-profile games drawing large crowds from both teams. Following the incident, security briefly locked down portions of the parking area while reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. The area was deemed safe shortly afterward.

Despite the disruption, enhanced security measures were put in place, including increased screening at stadium entrances. While minor delays were reported, officials confirmed that all protocols were precautionary and necessary to ensure a safe environment for attendees.

The Eagles vs. Bills game ultimately proceeded as scheduled under heightened security presence. Authorities noted that the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, responsibility, and respect among fans on game day—especially in one of the NFL’s most intense and passionate environments.

After further review of the incident late in the Philadelphia Eagles’ 29–18 win over the Washington Commanders, the NFL has officially

reduced Tyler Steen’s fine following a successful appeal.

Originally fined a total of $38,500 for his involvement in the fourth-quarter scuffle, the Eagles offensive lineman saw his punishment cut down to just $8,436

after the league reviewed additional video angles and context surrounding the altercation.

According to league sources, the NFL determined that Steen did not initiate the confrontation and that several actions initially included in the fine did not meet the threshold for multiple violations. As a result, only one unsportsmanlike conduct penalty was upheld, dramatically lowering the financial penalty.

Meanwhile, Washington players did not receive any reductions. Defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw remains the most heavily fined player from the incident, keeping his $16,870 total fine for two separate “swinging” violations involving Steen. Defensive backs

Will Harris, Quan Martin, and Mike Sainristil also retained their original fines for facemask and striking-related infractions.

The scuffle broke out with 4:26 remaining in the fourth quarter, immediately after the Eagles attempted a two-point conversion to extend their lead. While no suspensions were issued, the incident resulted in

three ejections and sparked immediate controversy ahead of the teams’ upcoming rematch in Week 18.

Steen addressed the league’s decision following the appeal.

Quote for Tyler Steen:

“I stood up for my teammate, and I trusted that the league would see the full picture once they reviewed the tape. I respect the process, and I’m glad the facts spoke for themselves.”

With the fine significantly reduced, the NFL’s ruling shifts part of the narrative surrounding the altercation. Still, tensions between the Eagles and Commanders remain high as both teams prepare to face each other again, with the memory of this incident far from forgotten.