Former NFL player Doug Martin died after being detained following Oakland home break-in, police say

Doug Martin, a former All-Pro running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Oakland Raiders, died in police custody after an incident in Oakland, California. Officers arrived at a reported break-in and encountered Martin, leading to a brief struggle during his detention. He became unresponsive and was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. Athletes First, his agency, confirmed that Martin battled mental health issues and that his family had sought assistance for him prior to the incident. The agency clarified that he fled his home feeling overwhelmed and was taken into custody at a neighbor's residence.

An investigation into the incident is underway, involving the Oakland Police Department's Homicide Section and several oversight agencies. The officers involved have been placed on paid administrative leave. Martin, known as the "Muscle Hamster," was celebrated for his impactful NFL career, amassing 5,356 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns.