Former NFL Star Doug Martin Dies in Oakland Police Custody After Reported Break-In
Oakland, CA — October 20, 2025: Former NFL running back Doug Martin has been identified as the suspect who died while in the custody of the Oakland Police Department early Saturday morning. Authorities say the 36-year-old, best known for his time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, suffered a medical emergency following his arrest in connection with a reported break-in.
According to official reports, police were called to a residence in Oakland shortly after 2:30 a.m. Saturday after receiving reports of a possible burglary in progress. Upon arrival, officers encountered a man—later identified as Doug Martin—who allegedly attempted to flee the scene. After a brief struggle, police were able to detain him. Moments later, officers noticed Martin appeared to be in medical distress. Emergency responders were called immediately, and life-saving measures were initiated, but he was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
The Oakland Police Department’s Internal Affairs Division, along with the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, has launched an investigation into the incident, which remains under review. Authorities have confirmed that all officers involved are cooperating fully and that body-worn camera footage will be examined to determine the sequence of events leading up to Martin’s death.
“This is a tragic and unexpected situation,” an Oakland Police spokesperson said in a press release. “Our department takes all in-custody deaths extremely seriously. We are committed to full transparency and accountability as the investigation proceeds.”
Doug Martin’s death has sent shockwaves through both the sports world and the community. Once a rising star in the NFL, Martin played six seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after being drafted in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Known for his explosive running style, he quickly made a name for himself, earning two Pro Bowl selections and amassing over 4,600 rushing yards during his professional career. His breakout rookie season, highlighted by a 251-yard game against the Raiders, remains one of the most memorable performances in Buccaneers history.
After stepping away from football, Martin largely stayed out of the public eye. However, like many former athletes, he faced challenges adjusting to life after the NFL. Friends and former teammates described him as passionate, driven, and deeply devoted to his family. “Doug was one of the most talented and hard-working players I ever knew,” one former teammate said. “It’s heartbreaking to hear that his life ended this way.”
Details surrounding the alleged break-in and the circumstances of Martin’s medical emergency remain unclear. The Alameda County Coroner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause of death, and toxicology results are pending. Authorities have not confirmed whether drugs, alcohol, or preexisting medical conditions played a role.
Community members and fans have expressed an outpouring of grief and disbelief on social media, with many remembering Martin not only for his athletic achievements but for the energy and dedication he brought to the game. His death adds to a growing list of tragic stories involving former professional athletes who have struggled after retirement, reigniting conversations about mental health, wellness, and the pressures of post-career life.
The Oakland Police Department has stated that updates will be released as new information becomes available. Meanwhile, Martin’s family has requested privacy as they mourn their loss and await the results of the ongoing investigation.
Doug Martin’s passing marks a somber chapter in both sports and law enforcement news—a story of talent, triumph, and tragedy that has left fans and loved ones searching for answers. Though his life ended far too soon, his legacy on the field, as one of the NFL’s most dynamic and memorable running backs of the 2010s, will endure in the hearts of those who watched him play.
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