Doug Martin, the former NFL running back known for his explosive career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and later the Oakland Raiders, has died at the age of 36.
His death occurred Saturday morning after a medical emergency while in the custody of the Oakland Police Department.
This has sparked multiple investigations and raised serious questions about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Arrest Turns Tragic: What We Know So Far
Authorities confirmed that Oakland police officers were dispatched around 4:15AM on Saturday to the 11000 block of Ettrick Street following reports of a possible break-in, per the Independent.
At the same time, a separate report alerted them to an individual "experiencing a medical emergency" at the same location - later determined to be the same person.
When officers arrived, they found the individual inside the residence.
According to the OPD: “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.
“Paramedic personnel arrived, provided medical aid, and transported the individual to an area hospital for further treatment. Unfortunately, the individual later died at the hospital.”
Though police initially withheld the suspect’s name, sources confirmed to KTVU that the person was Doug Martin.
The former athlete was reportedly unresponsive following his arrest and later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Family and Police Investigations Underway
Martin's family confirmed his passing in a statement shared shortly after the news broke.
“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.”
As of now, the exact nature of Martin’s medical emergency has not been disclosed.
The OPD stated that multiple oversight bodies would be involved in the investigation, including the department’s Homicide Section and Internal Affairs Bureau, the Oakland City Police Commission, the Community Police Review Agency, and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office.
In accordance with standard procedure, the officers involved in the incident have been placed on paid administrative leave.
Remembering Doug Martin: From Boise State to NFL Stardom
Known affectionately by fans as the “Muscle Hamster,” Martin rose to fame after a standout college career at Boise State University in Idaho. He was a first-round draft pick in 2012, selected 31st overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Martin wasted no time making his mark on the NFL. In his rookie season, he racked up 1,454 rushing yards and scored 11 touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl selection.
He went on to earn a second Pro Bowl nod in 2015 after another 1,400-yard season, despite struggling with injuries and off-field challenges during his tenure with the Bucs.
Over six seasons with Tampa Bay, Martin compiled 5,356 rushing yards and 30 rushing touchdowns. He also added 1,200 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns to his career totals.
Martin played his final NFL season with the Oakland Raiders during the 2018–2019 campaign, contributing 723 rushing yards and four touchdowns.
Tributes Pour In for the “Muscle Hamster”
Following the announcement of his passing, tributes quickly began to surface, celebrating Martin's impact both on and off the field.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers released a statement, honoring their former star: “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.”
Martin remains a revered figure among Boise State fans and NFL followers alike, remembered not only for his athletic accomplishments but also for the grit and determination he brought to the game.
Cause of Death Still Unconfirmed
While the Alameda County Coroner’s Office has yet to confirm the cause of Martin’s death officially, multiple agencies are working together to investigate the events leading up to his tragic passing.
The police have not provided further details on what prompted Martin's arrest or the nature of his alleged involvement in the reported break-in.