Former Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Henry Ruggs III has opened up about the fatal car crash that ended his NFL career.
Ruggs was granted special release from prison to attend a Hope for Prisoners event on Tuesday, and he spoke about the 2021 crash that killed a woman and her dog. Ruggs was drunk and drove over 150 mph before the crash. He ultimately pleaded guilty to felony DUI causing death and misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter.
Ruggs was asked what he would say to the family of Tina Tintor, the 23-year-old who was killed in the crash.
“One, that I wish I could turn back the hands of time,” Ruggs said. “I would love for them to meet the real Henry Ruggs and not the one that was escaping from something. I sincerely apologize for not only being a part of that situation, but the fact my face is always in the news, my face is always in the newspaper. So they have to constantly be reminded of the situation, be reminded of me, and those memories have to continue to rise because of all of the fame and notoriety that I have.”
Former @Raiders WR Henry Ruggs on what he'd say to the family of Tina Tintor. pic.twitter.com/Whc8KogBNp
— Vincent Bonsignore (@VinnyBonsignore) June 18, 2025
The Raiders drafted Ruggs with the No. 12 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, but released him immediately midway through 2021 when details of the fatal crash came to light. He is still just 26.
Ruggs received a 3-to-10 year prison sentence in August 2023. He will be eligible for parole in August 2026. One of Ruggs’ former teammates has said he hopes to play in the NFL again after he is released.
