Shocking Twist in Doug Martin’s Death: Ex-NFL Star, 36, Died After ‘Brief Struggle’ With Police

A shocking new development has emerged in the death of former NFL running back Doug Martin, as police revealed that the 36-year-old died after a “brief struggle” during an early morning encounter in Oakland. The incident unfolded around 4:15 a.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2025, when officers responded to reports of a suspected home break-in near the Oakland Zoo.

Police confirmed they also received a call indicating the suspect was experiencing a medical emergency. Officers say a physical confrontation took place as they tried to detain the individual, who later became unresponsive and was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. Family members later confirmed the deceased was Martin and requested privacy as investigations continue. The official cause of death has not yet been determined.

New Details on the “Shocking Twist” in Martin’s Final Moments

The Oakland Police Department said officers were called to a residence on Ettrick Street following reports of a break-in. At the same time, dispatchers received information that the person involved might be suffering from a medical emergency. According to police, a “brief struggle” occurred as officers attempted to take the suspect into custody. Moments later, the suspect became unresponsive.

Paramedics administered medical treatment on the scene before transporting the individual to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Authorities have since identified the person as Doug Martin, a former first-round NFL draft pick and two-time Pro Bowler. The officers involved have been placed on paid administrative leave pending multiple investigations into the incident.

The Alameda County Coroner’s Office has not yet released an official cause or manner of death. Meanwhile, Martin’s family issued a brief statement confirming his passing and asking for privacy during what they described as a “devastating and uncertain time.”

Investigations and Growing Questions Around the Case

The incident is now under review by several agencies, including the Oakland Police Department’s Homicide Section and Internal Affairs, the Oakland Police Commission, the Community Police Review Agency, and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office. The multiple investigations reflect the seriousness of in-custody deaths and aim to clarify the exact sequence of events.

Body-worn camera footage is expected to play a central role in determining what happened. Under California’s transparency laws, video and audio from “critical incidents” — such as in-custody deaths — must generally be released within 45 days unless doing so would significantly interfere with an active investigation. That footage could shed light on the nature of the “brief struggle” and whether the reported medical emergency contributed to Martin’s sudden death.

Community leaders and civil rights advocates have already called for the prompt release of the footage and 911 call audio, urging full transparency from law enforcement. The combination of a physical struggle and a medical emergency in Martin’s final moments has fueled public interest and questions about police procedures in the case.

Tributes Pour In for a Fallen NFL Star

Doug Martin, affectionately known as the “Muscle Hamster” for his powerful running style despite standing just 5-foot-9, was one of the NFL’s top running backs during his prime. Drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft, Martin spent six seasons with the team, earning two Pro Bowl selections and a first-team All-Pro honor in 2015. He finished his NFL career with the Oakland Raiders in the 2018 season.

Martin rushed for 5,356 yards and scored 30 rushing touchdowns in his career, while also recording over 1,200 receiving yards. The Buccaneers released a statement mourning his death and honoring his legacy, calling him “a fan favorite and one of the Top 50 Buccaneers of all time.” Boise State, where Martin played college football, also issued a tribute, describing him as a “Bronco legend” who “will be deeply missed.”

The shocking twist in Doug Martin’s death — the revelation of a brief struggle with police before he became unresponsive — has raised urgent questions about what truly happened in those final minutes. As multiple investigations continue and the public awaits the release of body-camera footage, the football world remembers a player whose powerful running and dynamic presence left an enduring mark on the game.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened before Doug Martin was detained?

Police responded to a break-in report and a simultaneous call about a medical emergency. Officers say a brief struggle occurred inside a home near the Oakland Zoo.

Q2: Who is investigating Doug Martin’s death?

The incident is being reviewed by OPD Homicide and Internal Affairs, the Oakland Police Commission, the Community Police Review Agency, and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office.

Q3: When could body-camera footage be released?

California law generally requires body-camera footage from critical incidents to be released within 45 days unless it would significantly interfere with an active investigation.

Q4: What do we know about the cause of death?

The official cause has not been released. The coroner is conducting an investigation, and Martin’s family has confirmed that the cause remains unconfirmed.

Q5: How have fans and teams reacted?

Tributes from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Boise State praised Martin’s achievements and legacy. Fans have called for transparency and a full investigation into the circumstances of his death.