Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin, a former college standout at Boise State, has died in police custody after a medical emergency during a police encounter in Oakland. The incident occurred on Saturday when Oakland police responded to a report of a burglary. During the encounter, officers detained Martin, who was believed to be connected to the break-in. A struggle ensued, and Martin became unresponsive before being taken to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Martin’s family confirmed his passing in a statement to FOX Sports, expressing their grief and requesting privacy. They stated, ‘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.’ The Oakland police department announced that the involved officers had been placed on paid administrative leave in accordance with department policy.
Throughout his NFL career, Martin was known for his impressive performances. He was the No. 31 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft and made an immediate impact with the Buccaneers. In his rookie season, he rushed for 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl nod. His breakout game came against the Raiders, where he rushed for 251 yards and four touchdowns. Martin played most of his career with the Buccaneers, earning two Pro Bowl selections and a first-team All-Pro honor in 2015. In 2018, he joined the Raiders for a season, adding 723 rushing yards and four touchdowns to his career totals.
The Buccaneers released a statement on Martin’s passing, expressing their deep sorrow over his sudden and unexpected passing. The team acknowledged his significant contributions to the franchise, from his record-setting rookie season in 2012 to his multiple Pro Bowl selections during his six seasons as a Buccaneer. They also highlighted his status as a fan favorite and his recognition as one of the Top 50 Buccaneers of all time for his numerous achievements.
As the NFL community mourns the loss of a beloved player, the focus now shifts to the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. Authorities have not yet released details on the cause of death, and the family has requested privacy during this difficult time. The incident has sparked renewed discussions about the use of force by police and the need for better medical response protocols in such situations. While the details remain under investigation, the tragedy has left fans and teammates in shock, remembering Martin’s contributions to the game and his impact on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.