Henry Ruggs III. The name once echoed with the promise of electrifying speed and game-changing potential on the National Football League (NFL) stage. Drafted 12th overall by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2020 NFL Draft, the former University of Alabama standout possessed the kind of blistering pace that could leave defenders trailing in his wake. Yet, his burgeoning career was abruptly and tragically derailed by a single, devastating act of impaired driving that resulted in the death of a young woman and her dog. This article delves into the rise of Henry Ruggs III, the fateful incident that altered countless lives, the ensuing legal proceedings, and the profound impact of this tragedy on the NFL and public consciousness.
Early Promise and Collegiate Stardom
Born and raised in Montgomery, Alabama, Henry Ruggs III displayed exceptional athleticism from a young age. While he didn’t start playing high school football until his junior year, his raw talent quickly became apparent. In his senior season at Robert E. Lee High School, he recorded 38 receptions for 639 yards and an astounding 20 touchdowns, showcasing his versatility as a receiver, rusher, and even a passer. He also excelled as a kick returner, further highlighting his explosive speed.
Ruggs’ collegiate career at the University of Alabama (2017-2019) solidified his status as a top-tier prospect. Playing under the legendary Nick Saban, he consistently demonstrated his big-play ability. Over three seasons, he amassed 98 receptions for 1,716 yards and a remarkable 24 receiving touchdowns, placing him third on Alabama’s all-time leaderboard in that category. His speed was a constant threat, forcing defenses to account for his deep routes. Beyond his receiving prowess, Ruggs also contributed in the return game, averaging 23.8 yards per kick return in his junior year. His electrifying performances helped the Crimson Tide secure a College Football Playoff National Championship in 2017.
Tragically, Ruggs carried a poignant tribute with him throughout his football journey. His close friend, Roderic Scott, who encouraged him to play football, died in a car crash at the age of 17. In honor of Scott, who wore number 3 on the basketball court, Ruggs would perform a three-fingered salute after every touchdown. This gesture underscored the profound impact of loss and the importance of remembrance in his life, a stark contrast to the devastating loss he would later inflict.
The NFL Dream and Flashes of Brilliance
Henry Ruggs III entered the 2020 NFL Draft as one of the most highly anticipated wide receiver prospects. His blazing speed, showcased by a blistering 4.27-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine (the fastest of that year and the fourth-fastest since electronic timing began in 1999), made him a coveted asset. The Las Vegas Raiders, seeking a dynamic playmaker to elevate their offense, selected him with their first-round pick, 12th overall.
In his rookie season (2020), Ruggs played in 13 games, recording 26 receptions for 452 yards and two touchdowns. While his numbers weren’t astronomical, he showed flashes of the explosiveness that had made him a star in college. His first 100-yard game came against the Kansas City Chiefs, where he hauled in a 72-yard touchdown reception, offering a glimpse of his potential to stretch the field.
The 2021 season appeared to be a breakout year for Ruggs. In the first seven games, he had already surpassed his previous season’s totals, with 24 receptions for 469 yards and two touchdowns. His 19.5 yards-per-catch average was among the league leaders, indicating his growing role as a primary target in the Raiders’ offense. His speed was proving to be a significant weapon, and many believed he was on the verge of becoming a true star in the NFL.
The Unthinkable Tragedy
The trajectory of Henry Ruggs III’s promising career took a catastrophic turn in the early hours of November 2, 2021. Driving his Chevrolet Corvette at an alarmingly high speed – reportedly up to 156 miles per hour – on a residential street in Spring Valley, Nevada, Ruggs rear-ended a Toyota RAV4 driven by 23-year-old Tina Tintor. The impact was devastating, causing Tintor’s vehicle to erupt in flames. Tragically, Tina Tintor and her golden retriever, Max, perished in the fiery collision.
According to police reports, Ruggs refused a field sobriety test at the scene. A subsequent blood test, taken approximately two hours after the crash, revealed a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.161%, more than twice the legal limit in Nevada. Ruggs’ girlfriend, Kiara Je’nai Kilgo-Washington, who was a passenger in his vehicle, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Ruggs himself was also hospitalized with injuries.
The details of the incident painted a grim picture of recklessness and disregard for human life. Hours before the crash, Ruggs and Kilgo-Washington were seen drinking at a Topgolf location on the Las Vegas Strip. Their decision to drive at excessive speeds while heavily intoxicated had irreversible and tragic consequences.
Legal Proceedings and Accountability
Following his release from the hospital, Henry Ruggs III was booked into the Clark County Detention Center. The Las Vegas Raiders swiftly released him the same day, a clear indication of the severity of the situation and the team’s stance against drunk driving.
The legal proceedings against Ruggs were closely followed by the public and the sports world. He was initially charged with felony DUI resulting in death and reckless driving. The potential penalties for these charges were severe, carrying the possibility of significant prison time.
In the ensuing months, Ruggs’ legal team explored various defense strategies, including questioning the admissibility of the blood test. However, in May 2023, as part of a plea agreement, Ruggs pleaded guilty to one count of felony DUI resulting in death and one count of misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter. Prosecutors stated that the plea deal was reached due to concerns about the admissibility of the blood draw in court, which was the primary evidence supporting the felony DUI charge. They were unwilling to risk Ruggs facing only reckless driving charges, which would likely have resulted in probation.
On August 9, 2023, Henry Ruggs III was sentenced to a minimum of three years and a maximum of ten years in a Nevada state prison for the felony DUI charge, with an additional six-month sentence for the misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter charge to be served concurrently. During his sentencing, Ruggs offered a tearful apology, stating, “I sincerely apologize for my actions the morning of Nov. 2, 2021. My actions are not a true reflection of me.”
Tina Tintor’s family, through their attorney, acknowledged that no sentence could bring back their loved one but expressed hope that the tragedy would inspire positive change and prevent future incidents of drunk driving.
By 2024, reports emerged that Ruggs was participating in the community trustee inmates program, working at the Nevada Governor’s Mansion while serving his sentence. This program allows eligible inmates to work outside of prison facilities under supervision. According to Nevada Department of Corrections records, Ruggs is first eligible for parole on August 5, 2026, and his participation in the work program could allow him to receive credit for time served.
FAQs
Who is Henry Ruggs III?
Henry Ruggs III is a former American football wide receiver who played for the Las Vegas Raiders in the NFL. Born on January 24, 1999, in Montgomery, Alabama, he played college football at the University of Alabama, where he was part of the 2017 national championship team. Ruggs was known for his exceptional speed, recording a 4.27-second 40-yard dash at the 2020 NFL Combine, which led to his selection as the 12th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Raiders.
What are Henry Ruggs III’s NFL career statistics?
During his two seasons with the Raiders (2020–2021), Ruggs played in 20 games, starting 19. He recorded 50 receptions for 921 receiving yards and four touchdowns. Additionally, he had 12 rushing attempts for 65 yards and contributed on special teams with 11 kick returns for 211 yards.
What happened in the 2021 car crash involving Henry Ruggs III?
On November 2, 2021, Ruggs was involved in a fatal car crash in Las Vegas. Driving his Chevrolet Corvette at approximately 156 mph with a blood alcohol content of 0.161—twice the legal limit—he collided with a Toyota RAV4, resulting in the deaths of 23-year-old Tina Tintor and her dog. The impact caused the RAV4 to catch fire, leading to their tragic deaths.
What legal consequences did Henry Ruggs III face?
In May 2023, Ruggs pleaded guilty to one count of DUI resulting in death and one count of vehicular manslaughter. He was sentenced in August 2023 to a prison term ranging from three to ten years. Ruggs is currently incarcerated and will be eligible for parole in August 2026.
Is Henry Ruggs III currently in prison?
Yes, Ruggs is serving his sentence at Casa Grande Transitional Housing in Las Vegas, a facility for non-violent offenders nearing parole eligibility. He is working as a trustee and is eligible for parole in August 2026.
Is Henry Ruggs III training for a potential NFL comeback?
According to his former teammate Josh Jacobs, Ruggs is training while incarcerated with hopes of returning to the NFL upon release. Jacobs has expressed support for Ruggs and believes some teams might be open to giving him a second chance.
What was the public and NFL reaction to the incident?
The incident drew widespread condemnation, with many expressing sorrow for the victim’s family and highlighting the dangers of impaired driving. The Raiders released Ruggs the day after the crash, and the NFL issued statements emphasizing the importance of responsible behavior off the field.
What was Henry Ruggs III’s college football career like?
At the University of Alabama, Ruggs played from 2017 to 2019. He totaled 98 receptions for 1,716 yards and 24 touchdowns over three seasons. Ruggs was known for his speed and big-play ability, contributing significantly to Alabama’s offense and special teams.
Has Henry Ruggs III expressed remorse for the incident?
During his sentencing, Ruggs apologized to the family of Tina Tintor, stating, “I sincerely apologize for the pain and suffering my actions have caused.” He accepted responsibility for the crash and expressed deep remorse for the consequences of his actions.
What is the current status of Henry Ruggs III’s NFL career?
As of now, Ruggs is not affiliated with any NFL team. Given his incarceration and the severity of the incident, his future in professional football remains uncertain. While he is training with hopes of a comeback, it will ultimately depend on legal outcomes and the willingness of NFL teams to offer him an opportunity.
To conclude
Henry Ruggs III’s journey from a promising NFL wide receiver to a convicted felon serves as a poignant reminder of how a single moment of poor judgment can have devastating consequences. His case underscores the importance of responsible decision-making, especially when it comes to issues like impaired driving.
While Ruggs is taking steps toward rehabilitation and hopes for a second chance in the NFL, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The impact of his actions on the victim’s family, the community, and his own life cannot be understated. As society grapples with questions of justice, redemption, and accountability, Ruggs’ story will continue to be a topic of discussion and reflection.
Ultimately, the tragedy involving Henry Ruggs III serves as a somber lesson on the far-reaching consequences of our choices and the importance of making decisions that prioritize the safety and well-being of others.
To read more , click here
