Richard Tillman pleads guilty to firebombing San Jose post office

Tillman is the brother of a late war hero and San Jose-raised NFL star.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Richard Tillman, 44, pleaded guilty in federal court to using his car to firebomb a South San Jose post office last summer. Tillman entered his plea as part of a deal with prosecutors, admitting that he attempted to set the post office on fire but did not finish because the heat from the fire was too intense.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of preventing domestic terrorism and extremism, especially when perpetrators have personal connections to high-profile figures. The attack on a government facility also raises concerns about the security of public infrastructure.

The details

According to court documents, Tillman drove his car to the post office, placed an incendiary device inside, and attempted to set it on fire. However, he was unable to complete the attack due to the intense heat from the flames. Tillman was arrested shortly after the incident and has been in federal custody since then.

  • Tillman attempted the firebombing last summer.
  • Tillman pleaded guilty in federal court on February 9, 2026.

The players

Richard Tillman

A 44-year-old man who pleaded guilty to attempting to firebomb a South San Jose post office.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Tillman is expected to be sentenced in the coming months, and prosecutors have indicated they will seek a lengthy prison term due to the severity of the crime.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement, mental health professionals, and community members to identify and address potential threats before they escalate to violence.