Nick Saban on Henry Ruggs’ fatal crash: ‘Consequences can be devastating’

Alabama football coach Nick Saban said Wednesday the fatal crash involving Henry Ruggs III will be ‘devastating’ for his former Crimson Tide receiver, but that it also can be a learning opportunity.

“Sometimes the consequences can be devastating,” Saban said Wednesday, offering condolences to the victims and love and support for his former player.. “These consequences are probably going to be devastating to Henry.”

Ruggs is facing up to 20 years in prison for the fiery Tuesday crash, which killed 23-year-old Tina Tintor and her dog in another vehicle. Clark County Chief Deputy District Attorney Eric Bauman said in court Wednesday that Ruggs was driving his Corvette over 156 miles per hour with a blood alcohol content of .161.

“I think [this incident] is something a lot of folks can learn from,” Saban said. “I think a lot of players on our team, when we say [for] people to make good choices and do the right thing. Because we love him. We’re going to support him through it. But we also have a lot of compassion from the victims, and our thoughts and prayers are also with them.”

Ruggs was a standout at Alabama under Saban’s tutelage. In three seasons with the Crimson Tide, he caught 98 balls for 1,716 yards and 24 touchdowns. He was selected 12th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders — who cut him Wednesday morning.

Ruggs’ girlfriend, Kiara Washington, was seriously injured in the crash. They were partying in Las Vegas before the fatal collision.