Lynyrd Skynyrd’s former drummer, Robert Burns, Jr., died late Friday night in a one-car accident in Georgia.

Georgia State Patrol spokeswoman Tracey Watson said Burns’ vehicle went off the road near Cartersville just before midnight Saturday. The car struck a mailbox and a tree.

Burns was killed in the wreck. He was 64.

The former Lynyrd Skynyrd drummer was not wearing a seat belt, and whether or not weather or alcohol had anything to do with the cause of the accident is still not known at this time

As the drummer for Lynyrd Skynyrd during some of their most prolific years, Robert Burns, Jr., was the driving force behind their biggest hits like “Sweet Home Alabama”, “Freebird”, and “Gimme Three Steps”.

Leaving Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1974, Robert Burns, Jr. went on to other things, but played with Lynyrd Skynyrd for their 2006 Hall of Fame induction. He also played with other bands like Artimus Pyle Band. Artimus Pyle took Burns’ place in Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Artemis Pyle Band took to Facebook to mourn the loss of their friend and Lynyrd Skynyrd legend.

The words of the band are a great tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd legend, Robert Burns, Jr.

They said, “Fans we are absolutely devastated this morning after learning that our dear friend, band mate and original Lynyrd Skynyrd drummer, Bob Burns has passed away. Bob was one of the kindest, sweetest men you would ever want to know and a rock solid drummer.”

It continued, “Artimus calls him the Ringo Star of southern rock. We were honored to have shared the stage with Bob and were looking forward to many more shows down the road. Bob we love you and will surely miss you! Prayers for his daughters Lou and Kristen. RIP old friend.”

Another rock legend lost. What is your favorite Lynyrd Skynyrd song?