Doug Martin, former Oakland Raiders running back, dies in police custody

Doug Martin, a former NFL running back, died at age 36 while in Oakland Police custody after suffering a medical emergency during his arrest. Officers took Martin into custody around 5 a. m. following a break-in at a residence near the Oakland Zoo. The police reported a brief struggle before he became unresponsive, prompting paramedics to provide aid and transport him to a hospital, where he later died.

The Oakland Police Department's homicide and internal affairs units, along with the Alameda County District Attorney's Office, are investigating the incident. Martin's family expressed deep sorrow over his death, noting his significant impact as a fan favorite with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Known for his bruising playing style and earning the nickname "Muscle Hamster," Martin rushed for 5,356 yards and scored 30 touchdowns in his seven NFL seasons. He was a first-round pick in 2012 and made a notable debut, rushing for 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns in his rookie season. His legacy includes being ranked among the top 10 in rushing yards at Boise State, where he played from 2007 to 2011.