Richard Tillman, Brother of Pat Tillman, Arrested in Post Office Arson Case
Richard Tillman, 44, the brother of the late NFL player and Army Ranger Pat Tillman, was arrested early Sunday morning after allegedly driving a vehicle into the Almaden Valley Station Post Office in San Jose, California, and setting it ablaze. The incident, which occurred around 3:00 AM PDT on July 20, 2025, is under investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and local authorities.
Details of the Incident and Arrest
According to reports, Richard Tillman identified himself as Pat Tillman's brother at the scene. Authorities also state that he allegedly live-streamed the incident on social media. While no injuries were reported, the post office building sustained substantial structural damage. Tillman was subsequently booked on suspicion of arson and is currently being held without bail in Santa Clara County Jail. His court appearance is scheduled for July 23, 2025.
Federal Investigation Launched
The USPIS has taken the lead in the investigation, working jointly with local law enforcement agencies. U.S. Postal Inspector Matthew Norfleet stated, "It certainly seems like a possibility that this fire was intentionally set. Why anybody would do that, like I said, is beyond explanation." The investigation is treating the incident as a potentially intentional act.
Graffiti Found at the Scene
Adding another layer to the investigation, graffiti with the phrase "Viva la me" was discovered spray-painted on the exterior of the post office. Authorities are currently investigating whether this graffiti is connected to the alleged arson.
Family Statement and Mental Health Concerns
Kevin Tillman, another brother of Richard and Pat Tillman, released a statement addressing the situation. In it, he revealed Richard's long-standing struggles with mental health issues. "To be clear, it's no secret that Richard has been battling severe mental health issues for many years," Kevin Tillman stated. "He has been livestreaming, what I'll call, his altered self on social media for anyone to witness. Unfortunately, securing the proper care and support for him has proven incredibly difficult — or rather, impossible."
Richard Tillman's Online Activity
Prior to the incident, reports indicate Richard Tillman had posted an 11-minute video on YouTube where he stated his intention to "take down the system," including the U.S. government. His YouTube channel, which reportedly contained several videos documenting his "apparent unraveling" in recent months, has since been removed.
Pat Tillman's Legacy and the Family's History
The incident involving Richard Tillman has inevitably drawn renewed attention to the Tillman family, particularly the legacy of Pat Tillman. Pat Tillman famously left his NFL career to join the U.S. Army after the 9/11 attacks. He was killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan on April 22, 2004, an event that brought the family significant public attention and scrutiny. Richard Tillman's controversial remarks at Pat's funeral, where he challenged religious interpretations of Pat's afterlife, have also resurfaced.
Impact on Postal Services
The Almaden Valley Station Post Office, which suffered significant structural damage in the fire, is considered a total loss. This has disrupted mail services in the Almaden Valley area of San Jose. The San Jose Fire Department confirmed that approximately 50 personnel responded to the second-alarm fire.
