Doug Martin, a former Boise State University star and two-time All-Pro running back with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has died, his family confirmed on Sunday. He was 36.
“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 family said in a statement, according to multiple news outlets.
Martin reportedly died while in police custody in Oakland, California, early Saturday morning, multiple sources confirmed to the East Bay Times about the investigation. The incident happened after police responded to a home break-in just after 4:15 a.m. in East Oakland.
The police were notified that the suspected burglar, believed to be Martin, was having a “medical emergency,” according to a statement from the Oakland Police Department.
Doug Martin’s death is being investigated by multiple law enforcement agencies
A “brief struggle” with officers occurred before Martin became unresponsive after being taken into custody, the department said. Paramedics arrived at the scene, rendering medical aid before Martin was transported to a nearby hospital, where he died, according to police.
Oakland Police officers involved in the incident were placed on paid administrative leave in accordance with the department’s policy.
Since Martin died in police custody, his death his being investigated by the Oakland Police Department’s homicide unit, OPD’s internal affairs bureau, the civilian-led Oakland Police Commission, the Community Police Review Agency and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office.
What to know about Doug Martin’s college and NFL career
The Buccaneers, with whom Martin spent six years of his career, shared a statement Sunday afternoon about his on-field skills and the impact he had on the team.
“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,” the statement read, according to The Guardian.
Martin was born in Stockton, California, and later became one of Boise State’s most accomplished star running backs, according to the Tampa Bay Times. Over four seasons, he amassed more than 3,400 rushing yards and 43 touchdowns. His best college moment was during the 2011 Maaco Bowl Las Vegas, where he earned MVP honors for his performance in a 56–24 victory over Arizona State.
In 2012, he was drafted 31st overall by the Buccaneers with an impressive 1,454 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns as a rookie. One of his best NFL performances was the 251-yard, four-touchdown game against the Oakland Raiders.
Martin had another 1,400-yard season in 2015 but later faced setbacks from injuries and a 2016 suspension for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy. After his six-year stint with Tampa Bay, Martin played his final year with the Raiders in 2018 before retiring.