NFL Star and War Hero Pat Tillman’s Brother Arrested After San Jose Post Office Crash

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The brother of late NFL standout and U.S. Army Ranger Pat Tillman has been arrested following a fiery crash into a United States Postal Service (USPS) facility in San Jose, California on Sunday. The incident, currently under investigation as a potential intentional act, resulted in a significant fire that destroyed both the vehicle and part of the building.

Authorities responded around 3 am local time after a vehicle slammed into the post office, igniting a blaze that engulfed the car and spread to the structure. Firefighters worked quickly to control the flames. Photos from the scene show smoke billowing from the building and the charred remains of the vehicle. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.

Richard Tillman, Pat Tillman’s younger brother, was taken into custody at the scene. According to KNTV-TV, an NBC affiliate, he is being held without bail. Local reports indicate that Richard told officers he had live-streamed the crash online, though no such video has yet surfaced publicly. He is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday.

Investigated as Intentional

Federal postal inspectors have launched an inquiry into the crash and are treating it as a potentially deliberate act. A USPS spokesperson confirmed that officials are coordinating closely with San Jose police as the investigation continues. While the motive remains unclear, law enforcement has not ruled out the possibility of criminal intent.

The incident has drawn national attention partly because of the Tillman family’s legacy. Pat Tillman, who played as a safety for the Arizona Cardinals in the National Football League (NFL) from 1998 to 2001, famously left professional football to enlist in the United States Army following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He walked away from a $3.6 million contract to serve his country, inspired by a sense of duty and patriotism.

Tillman served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the U.S. Army Rangers. Tragically, he was killed in April 2004 by friendly fire during a mission in eastern Afghanistan, a detail that was not revealed until a 2007 Pentagon report clarified the actual circumstances of his death. Despite four separate investigations into the incident, no criminal wrongdoing was ever found.

Richard Tillman delivered an emotional speech at Pat’s memorial service in 2004, remembered for his candid and heartfelt remarks. The crash in San Jose has stirred renewed attention on the family, and many are now expressing concern for Richard’s well-being.

As the legal process progresses, authorities are expected to provide more information after Wednesday’s court appearance. The USPS building involved remains closed as damage assessments continue. Federal investigators have not yet confirmed whether any charges related to terrorism, arson, or other federal crimes will be filed.