Former NFL running back Doug Martin, a two-time Pro Bowler with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, died Saturday, Oct. 18 after being taken into custody by Oakland police during a home break-in call. He was 36.
The Buccaneers issued a statement on Oct. 19, saying, “We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin. From his record-setting rookie season in 2012 to his multiple Pro Bowl selections during his six seasons as a Buccaneer, Doug made a lasting impact on our franchise.”
“He was a fan favorite during his time in Tampa Bay and was honored as one of the Top 50 Buccaneers of all time for his numerous achievements,” the team added. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and everyone whom Doug touched throughout his life.”
According to the Tampa Bay Times, his family announced the news in a statement, “It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning. Cause of death is currently unconfirmed. Please respect our privacy at this time.”The Oakland Police Department said in a statement that the “in-custody death” occurred just after 4:15 a.m. on October 18 in the 11000 block of Ettrick Street. Officers responded to reports of “an individual who had broken into a nearby residence,” and at the same time were notified of “an individual who was experiencing a medical emergency” believed to be the same person.
“Upon arrival, officers located the individual inside the residence,” the department said. “While attempting to detain the individual, a brief struggle ensued. After being taken into custody, the individual became unresponsive.”
Paramedics arrived, provided medical aid, and transported the individual to an area hospital, where he later died, according to the police statement.
The department did not initially release the person’s identity, but sources later confirmed to the East Bay Times that the individual was Martin. It was reported that Martin “died in a hospital after he became unresponsive following his arrest by OPD officers who were responding to reports of a possible break-in.”
NTD has reached out to the Oakland Police Department for comment.
The nature of Martin’s medical emergency was not known. The Oakland Police Department said the death is under investigation by the agency’s Homicide Section, Internal Affairs Bureau, the Oakland City Police Commission, the Community Police Review Agency, and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office.
“In accordance with OPD policy, the officer(s) involved in the incident have been placed on paid administrative leave,” police said in their statement on social media. “The Oakland Police Department remains committed to transparency. However, to ensure the integrity of the investigation, the release of information must be limited at this time.”
Martin, a Stockton, California native, was selected 31st overall by the Buccaneers in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft following an impressive collegiate career at Boise State University. He made an immediate impact as a rookie, rushing for 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns to earn a Pro Bowl selection. In 2015, he returned to the Pro Bowl with 1,402 yards and six touchdowns, also earning first-team All-Pro honors.
Over his seven-year NFL career, Martin rushed for 5,356 yards and 30 touchdowns, also recording 148 receptions for 1,207 yards and two receiving scores. He played six seasons in Tampa Bay and one with the then-Oakland Raiders in 2018.
Authorities said more details about the investigation would be released “as soon as the investigative process allows and in compliance with the law.”