This browser does not support the Video element.
Doug Martin dies while in police custody
Former NFL star running back Doug Martin has reportedly died while in police custody in California. He was 36.
Former NFL star running back Doug Martin, who played for the Oakland Raiders and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has died while in police custody in California.
He was 36.
What we know:
Martin's family announced via a statement that he died on Saturday, October 18.
Hours prior to the family's announcement, the Oakland Police Department had launched an in-custody death investigation at a home in the 11000 block of Ettrick Street.
28 MAR 2014: Doug Martin during the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Jersey Debut at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Cliff Welch/Icon SMI/Corbis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
According to Oakland PD, that home was at the center of two separate emergency calls: an alleged break-in and a medical emergency. When police arrived at the scene, they found a person inside the home – later identified by officials as Doug Martin – and officers in Oakland placed him in custody.
During the process of detaining Martin, Oakland PD said a "brief struggle ensued," but the former NFL star was eventually placed in custody. While in custody, the Martin allegedly suffered a medical emergency and was pronounced dead at the hospital, Oakland PD said.
FOX 11's sister station KTVU-TV reported on Sunday that it was Martin who died in custody before Oakland PD confirmed the report the next day.
On Monday, in an updated version of a news release, Oakland PD identified Martin as a suspect in a break-in case.
What we don't know:
The cause of Martin's death has not been announced as of Sunday, October 19.
The backstory:
Martin, known by football fans as "Muscle Hamster" or the "Dougernaut," was named All-Pro in 2015 and earned two Pro Bowl nods (2012 and 2015) in his seven seasons in the NFL.
Among the NFL circles, the California native was mostly known for his time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before he finished his career with then-Oakland Raiders. Prior to the league, Martin starred with Boise State, where he was named All-Mountain West Conference in 2011.
Prior to playing for the Boise State Broncos, Martin attended St. Mary's High School in Stockton.
TMZ first broke the news of Martin's death before Boise State and the Buccaneers published tributes on social media honoring the former running back:
What they're saying:
Martin's family issued a statement, obtained earlier by FOX Sports, announcing the 36-year-old's death:
"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 Bucs released the following statement in response to Martin's death on the team's social media pages:
"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.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and everyone whom Doug touched throughout his life."
This story was reported from Los Angeles.
The Source: This report used information provided by Boise State Broncos football and referenced a report from TMZ.