Former Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Henry Ruggs III, serving time for a fatal DUI crash, was granted a temporary release to attend a Hope for Prisoners event. During the event, Ruggs offered a heartfelt apology to the family of Tina Tintor, the victim of the tragic accident. He expressed deep regret and a wish to undo the past, acknowledging the constant reminders of his actions that the family must endure.
Ruggs’s 2021 crash, which occurred while he was driving at 156 mph with a blood-alcohol content twice the legal limit, resulted in the death of Tintor and her dog. He pleaded guilty to felony DUI causing death and misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter, receiving a sentence of 3-10 years with parole eligibility in August 2026. This recent apology follows a previous expression of remorse at his sentencing hearing.
The incident occurred just days after Ruggs’ 20th NFL game, marking a devastating end to a promising career. The former first-round draft pick’s actions have left a lasting impact, not only on the victims’ family but also on the community and the NFL. His potential return to the NFL following his prison sentence remains uncertain. Former teammate Josh Jacobs has stated that Ruggs has been training during his incarceration, raising the possibility of a future comeback. However, the gravity of the crime and the devastation caused will likely weigh heavily on any future opportunities. This event and Ruggs’s words serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of impaired driving and the importance of responsible behavior.
The details of the accident are deeply troubling. Ruggs was driving his Corvette at an incredibly high speed when he collided with Tintor’s vehicle, causing a fire that resulted in her death. The impact was so severe that Tintor’s gas tank ruptured, contributing to the tragic outcome. The presence of a passenger, Kiara Je’nai Kilgo-Washington, who also sustained injuries, further underscores the reckless nature of Ruggs’ actions. The entire incident is a somber reminder of the devastating impact of drunk driving. The sincerity of Ruggs’ apology remains a matter of personal interpretation, but his words undoubtedly carry significant weight given the circumstances.
