Daryl Hawks, an NBCChicago sports anchor since 2008, died Thursday morning in Atlanta.

He was there to cover Game 6 of the Bulls vs. Hawks game. The cause of death is unknown at this time.

Hotel employees discovered him in his room at approximately 9:30 a.m. after he missed a wake-up call. He was rushed to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

"We are all stunned right now. Daryl was a great member of our sports team, and was so excited about covering the Bulls during this playoff run," said Frank Whittaker, Station Manager and Vice President of News.

Hawks was 38 years old. He was a three-time Emmy Winner and former Marine who called Buffalo, New York home.

He leaves behind a wife, Sandy, and three children.



A moment of silence was held prior to the singing of the National Anthem at the start of Thursday night's Bulls game.



Facebook.com: Daryl Hawks

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hawks Children Education Fund:



Community Bank of Oak Park River Forest

7777 Lake St.

River Forest, IL 60305

c/o Sean Olis