Richard Tillman, the brother of fallen Army Ranger and former NFL player Pat Tillman, was arrested early Monday morning in San Jose, California, after allegedly driving his car into a post office and setting the building on fire.
Authorities say the incident occurred around 3 a.m. at the U.S. Post Office on Crown Boulevard in the Almaden Valley neighborhood. Surveillance footage and witness accounts indicate that Tillman, 44, intentionally crashed his vehicle through the front entrance before igniting a fire that severely damaged the facility. Fire crews battled the blaze for over 90 minutes before bringing it under control.
“We’re definitely investigating it as possibly an intentional act,” said U.S. Postal Inspector Matthew Norfleet. “Driving the vehicle into the building and then starting the fire can’t be ruled out as having been done on purpose.”
Investigators are reviewing evidence that suggests Tillman may have live-streamed or recorded the incident. One witness reported that Tillman had a box of personal belongings with him at the scene, including a photo of his late brother, Pat Tillman.
Graffiti found at the scene reading “Viva La Me” is also under review. “Those markings were not present the day before,” Norfleet said. “What their connection is to the fire and crash is still unclear.”
The federal post office suffered significant damage, and local residents have reported disruptions in mail delivery.
“I guess I’ll just put the outgoing mail in the box and see if the mailman comes,” said nearby resident Tom Gerber. “I don’t know if we’ll get mail today or not.”
Richard Tillman is currently being held without bail at the Santa Clara County Jail and is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday. As of Tuesday morning, authorities had not disclosed a motive.
Pat Tillman became a national symbol of sacrifice after leaving a lucrative NFL career to enlist in the U.S. Army following the September 11 attacks. He was killed in Afghanistan in 2004. The U.S. government later confirmed he was killed by friendly fire, a revelation that drew widespread attention and criticism.
