Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers All-Pro running back and Boise State star Doug Martin died while in police custody following a struggle with officers who were investigating a break-in at a home in Oakland, California, on Sunday according to the Oakland Police Department. Martin, 36, became unresponsive after his arrest and was transported to the hospital after receiving medical aid on the scene.
A cause of death has not been released, though the Alameda County Coroner’s Office will do an autopsy to determine what happened.
A first-round pick by Tampa Bay in the 2012 NFL Draft, Martin played seven seasons in the pros prior to his career ending after a brief stint with the Oakland Raiders.
Oakland police said Monday that Martin “was involved in a break-in at a residence in Oakland,” and as officers were attempting to detain him, a “brief struggle occurred” with Martin becoming unresponsive after being taken into custody.
“Paramedics responded to the scene, provided medical aid, and transported Martin to a local hospital, where he later died,” police said. “Since Saturday, OPD has been in contact with Martin’s family. The family has requested privacy as they grieve this tragic loss. No additional details are being released at this time, as this remains an ongoing investigation.”
The officers involved in the incident have been placed on paid administrative leave.
Athletes First and agency CEO Brian Murphy, who represented Martin, released an additional statement on behalf of his family. Within the statement, it was revealed that Martin battled menal health challenges “that profoundly impacted his personal and professional life.”
“Ultimately, mental illness proved to be the one opponent from which Doug could not run,” the statement continued. “Following recent media reports about Doug’s untimely passing, the family wishes to clarify the circumstances. Doug’s parents were actively seeking medical assistance for him and…
..
[ad_2]