OAKLAND — The man who died while in Oakland police custody early Saturday morning was former Oakland Raiders and Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin, multiple sources close to the investigation told this news organization.
Martin, 36, died at a hospital after being contacted by Oakland police, who were responding to reports of a home break-in just after 4:15 a.m. in East Oakland, the sources said. The cause of his death has yet to be determined, and the incident remains under investigation by multiple local law enforcement agencies.
A statement released by Martin’s family announced his death and asked for “privacy at this time.”
“It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning,” the statement read. ”Cause of death is currently unconfirmed.” When reached Sunday evening, a family member referred back to the statement.
Born in Oakland and raised in Stockton, Martin spent seven seasons in the NFL. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers out of Boise State University and spent six years with the team before finishing his career with the Oakland Raiders.
The incident began when Oakland police were called about person who had broken into a home on the 11000 block of Ettrick Street, a residential block in the hills above East Oakland. Oakland police “simultaneously” received notice that the suspected burglar was having “a medical emergency,” according to a statement by the Oakland Police Department.
A “brief struggle” ensued when officers contacted the suspected burglar, police said. The person then became unresponsive after being taken into custody, according to Oakland police. After receiving medical aid by paramedics on scene, the person was taken to a hospital, where they later died, the department’s statement said.
The Alameda County Coroner’s Office has yet to release the name of the person who died.
Martin made his mark at Boise State University, becoming one of the most productive running backs in program history. During his four-year career after prepping at St. Mary’s-Stockton, he rushed for more than 3,400 yards and 43 touchdowns, helping the Broncos maintain national prominence under coach Chris Petersen.
His standout performance in the 2011 Maaco Bowl Las Vegas, where he earned MVP honors, solidified his status as an NFL-ready prospect. Martin rushed for 151 yards and returned the opening kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown in Boise State’s 56-24 victory over Arizona State.
Though his career was marked by flashes of brilliance, including another 1,400-yard rushing season in 2015, it was also marred by injuries and off-field challenges. In 2016, Martin was suspended four games for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy after testing positive for a banned substance. He later sought treatment and publicly expressed regret, vowing to rebuild his health and reputation.
After six seasons in Tampa Bay, Martin signed with the Raiders in 2018, where he provided veteran leadership and rushed for 723 yards and four touchdowns in what would be his final NFL season.
Martin retired quietly after the 2018 campaign, leaving behind a complicated but impactful legacy. In total, he rushed for 5,356 yards and 30 touchdowns over seven seasons. His 4,633 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns with Tampa Bay still place him among the Bucs’ all-time greats at the position.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin,” the Bucs said in a statement. “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. He was a fan favorite during his time in Tampa Bay and was honored as one of the Top 50 Buccaneers of all time for his numerous achievements. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and everyone whom Doug touched throughout his life.”
Check back for updates to this developing story. The Tribune News Services contributed to this report.
Jakob Rodgers is a senior breaking news reporter. Call, text or send him an encrypted message via Signal at 510-390-2351, or email him at jrodgers@bayareanewsgroup.com.