Doug Martin, an Oakland-born former NFL star, died Saturday in Oakland police custody after he suffered a “medical emergency” while officers responded to a call about an alleged burglary in the Oakland Hills, according to multiple reports. The events that led to the death of Martin, 36, are currently under investigation by multiple Alameda County agencies.
Oakland police released a statement about the death on Saturday afternoon, detailing how officers responded to a call at 4:15 a.m. for a break-in on the 11000 block of Ettrick Street, which is located in between the Oakland Zoo and Lake Chabot Golf Course.
“Simultaneously, officers were notified of an individual who was experiencing a medical emergency and was believed to be the same individual related to the break-in,” the police statement said. “Upon arrival, officers located the individual inside the residence. While attempting to detain the individual, a brief struggle ensued. After being taken into custody, the individual became unresponsive.”
The statement said the person was taken by paramedics to an area hospital, where the individual died. The officers involved were placed on paid leave while an investigation begins, which the statement said is department policy.
“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. Additional details will be shared as soon as the investigative process allows and in compliance with the law,” the statement concluded.
Martin’s death was first reported on Sunday morning, with his family later releasing a statement confirming his passing. The statement said Martin’s cause of death “is currently unconfirmed” and asked for privacy. On Sunday evening, Bay Area News Group and KTVU first reported the man who died in police custody is Martin, citing sources close to the investigation. Oakland police did not respond to SFGATE’s request for comment. The Alameda County Coroner’s Office has not released the decedent’s name at this time, and Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Josh Robertson told SFGATE there is a “press hold” on the case.
Martin was born in Oakland and raised in Stockton, attending high school at St. Mary’s. The 5-foot-9 running back starred collegiately at Boise State and was a first-round pick by Tampa Bay in 2012, with a strong rookie year earning him the first of two Pro Bowl appearances.
Martin played for six seasons with the Buccaneers before signing with his hometown Raiders for his final season in 2018. In total, Martin tallied 5,356 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns in his NFL career. All three of his former teams released statements honoring Martin, with the Bucs calling him a “fan favorite” and Boise State saying he was one of the best running backs in school history.