Former NFL Star Henry Ruggs Breaks Silence and Apologizes for Fatal DUI Crash That Claimed a Young Woman’s Life

A Night of Speed, Tragedy, and a Lifetime of Regret

Former NFL wide receiver Henry Ruggs, once a rising star in professional football, has publicly expressed remorse for the deadly crash that ended the life of 23-year-old Tina Tintor in 2021. Speaking at a recent rehabilitation event in Las Vegas, Ruggs offered a heartfelt apology to Tintor’s family, acknowledging the pain his actions caused and the lasting grief they endure.

The Tragic Night That Changed Lives Forever

On the night of November 2, 2021, Ruggs was driving his high-performance sports car through Las Vegas at an astonishing speed of 156 mph — more than three times the posted 45 mph speed limit. Ruggs had a blood alcohol level of 0.16%, twice the legal limit in Nevada. His vehicle crashed into Tintor’s car, which subsequently caught fire. Tina Tintor and her beloved dog tragically died at the scene.

Ruggs, who sustained minor injuries, was arrested and released by his NFL team, the Las Vegas Raiders, the following day.

A Courtroom Reckoning

In May 2023, Henry Ruggs pleaded guilty to felony DUI resulting in death and misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter. By August, he was sentenced to serve between three and ten years in prison. He will be eligible for parole in August 2026.

At his sentencing, Ruggs faced the Tintor family and issued a statement expressing sorrow for the irreversible damage he had caused. He said, “I sincerely apologize for the pain and suffering.”

A Mother’s Grief and a Wish for Change

Tina Tintor’s mother, Mirjana Komazec, also issued a moving statement during the court proceedings, delivered by a family member. She acknowledged the emotional weight of the tragedy and offered a powerful message of empathy and reflection:

“We pray that Henry Ruggs is blessed with the opportunity to watch his beautiful daughter grow into the amazing woman she can be. And we pray that this terrible accident inspires positive change in the world.”

Her words served not only as a testament to her resilience but also as a reminder of the importance of compassion, accountability, and road safety.

A Moment of Reflection from Ruggs

Appearing at the "Hope for Prisoners" community event, Ruggs responded to a question about what he would say to Tintor’s family:

“One, I wish I could turn back the hands of time,” he said emotionally. “I would love for them to meet the real Henry Ruggs and not the one that was escaping from something. I sincerely apologize not only for being part of the situation but also for the pain they continue to experience every time my name appears in the news.”

Life After Football and a Long Road Ahead

At just 26 years old, Henry Ruggs was once a promising first-round NFL draft pick with a bright future. Now, his life has taken a drastic turn. His former teammate Josh Jacobs has hinted at Ruggs' hopes of returning to the NFL after completing his sentence. However, any such future remains uncertain and will depend not only on parole but also on whether society — and the league — is willing to offer a second chance.

Remembering Tina Tintor

Beyond the headlines, the story centers on the life lost — Tina Tintor. A young woman with a full future ahead of her, remembered lovingly by family and friends. Her legacy, now tied to a cautionary tale of speed, alcohol, and irreversible choices, serves as a call for greater awareness and responsibility behind the wheel.