OAKLAND, California — Doug Martin, a former NFL running back who played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and then-Oakland Raiders, has died while he was in police custody, according to multiple reports.
Martin, 36, became unresponsive Saturday after he had been arrested by Oakland police, KTVU Channel 2 reports. Authorities say Martin had an “unspecified medical emergency,” according to KTVU.
“It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning,” read a statement from Martin’s family, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. “Cause of death is currently unconfirmed. Please respect our privacy at this time.”
The East Bay Times reports police were called about a possible home break-in in East Oakland at about 4:15 a.m. Saturday. A “brief struggle” reportedly occurred before Martin became unresponsive while in custody.
Martin received medical aid at the scene and then was taken to a hospital, where he later died, reports say.
The Times reports the officers involved have been placed on administrative leave. Martin’s death is being investigated by the Oakland police department’s homicide unit, internal affairs bureau, the Oakland police commission, the Community Police Review Agency and the Alameda county district attorney’s office.
Martin was drafted by the Buccaneers in 2012 out of Boise State and played six seasons with the team. In his rookie season he ran for 1,454 yards and scored 12 touchdowns, earning a spot in the Pro Bowl. In 2015, he ran for 1,402 yards and scored seven TDs. He was named first-team All-Pro and again earned Pro Bowl recognition.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin,” a social media post from the Buccaneers says. “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.”
In 2016 Martin was suspended for four games for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy after testing positive for a banned substance, the Chronicle reports.
Injuries hampered Martin’s NFL career and he ended his career following the 2018 season with the Raiders.
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