Former NFL player Doug Martin has died while in police custody after an alleged “brief struggle occurred,” according to the Oakland Police Department.
The Oakland Police Department (OPD) released a statement via its Facebook page stating that the department is investigating the “in custody death” of the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back. The incident took place Oct. 18 after police officers responded to a call of a break-in in Oakland. Police were also notified that an individual was experiencing a medical emergency, leading officers to believe it was the same person.
Police officers stated that after finding Martin inside the residence, there was a brief struggle, and after being placed in custody, he became unresponsive. Paramedics arrived on the scene and tried to revive him, and took him to a local hospital, where they administered more aid. He later died.
The police officers involved in the incident were placed on paid administrative leave, as the OPD has started an investigation into the matter.
ESPN reported that the agency that represented Martin during his career, Athletes First, stated that his family claimed he was struggling with mental issues before the incident, and they were seeking help for him.
Athletes First CEO, Brian Murphy, released a statement:
“Doug’s parents were actively seeking medical assistance for him and had contacted local authorities for support. Feeling overwhelmed and disoriented, Doug fled his home during the night and entered a neighbor’s residence two doors down, where he was taken into custody by police. An investigation into what transpired as he was detained is underway.”
This is from Doug Martin’s agent Brian Murphy on behalf of his family. It says he battled mental health challenges that “profoundly impacted his personal and professional life.” It also says his parents were trying to get him medical assistance. pic.twitter.com/gQqGKz01ln
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) October 21, 2025
Martin played in the NFL for seven seasons, spending six with the Buccaneers and his last year with the Oakland Raiders before leaving the league for good in 2019. Before being selected by the Buccaneers in 2012 with the 31st pick of the NFL Draft, he played his collegiate career with Boise State (2007 to 2011). The running back was a first-team Mountain West All-Conference player twice and ranks in the top 10 in career rushing yards and rushing touchdowns at Boise State.
Former NFL Player Doug Martin Died While In Police Custody
