Ex-NFL Star Doug Martin Identified as Suspect Hours Before His Death

Former NFL running back Doug Martin has been identified as the suspect in a reported home break-in just hours before his death, according to Oakland police and multiple reports. The 36-year-old ex-Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Oakland Raiders star died after suffering an unspecified medical emergency shortly after being detained. (KTVU)

Police say officers were dispatched at about 4:15 a.m. on Saturday, October 18, to a home on the 11000 block of Ettrick Street following reports of a possible break-in. At the same time, dispatchers received information that a person at the same address was experiencing a medical emergency. (San Francisco Chronicle)

When officers arrived, they found a man inside the residence, later identified as Doug Martin. Police said he briefly resisted when officers attempted to detain him. (San Francisco Chronicle)

After he was taken into custody, Martin became unresponsive. Paramedics were called to the scene, provided medical aid, and transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead a short time later. (San Francisco Chronicle)

Authorities said Martin suffered a medical emergency, but the nature of that emergency remains unknown. They also have not specified why he was taken into custody. (KTVU)

The Oakland Police Department’s Homicide Section and Internal Affairs Bureau have launched investigations into the incident. Oversight agencies — including the Oakland Police Commission, the Community Police Review Agency, and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office — will also review the case. (San Francisco Chronicle)

Police confirmed that the officers involved in Martin’s arrest have been placed on paid administrative leave, which is standard protocol in cases involving an in-custody death. (NBC Bay Area)

Martin, a California native and standout at Boise State University, was the No. 31 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. He spent most of his NFL career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, earning two Pro Bowl selections and being named a first-team All-Pro in 2015. He later joined the Oakland Raiders in 2018, rushing for 723 yards and four touchdowns. (KTVU)

His family released a statement following his death, saying: “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.” (KTVU)