Featured Image Credit: Al Messerschmidt/Getty
Topics: NFL, Mental Health
Joe Yates
The family of former NFL running back Doug Martin have spoken out following his death in police custody.
The ex-Tampa Bay Buccaneers star was reportedly detained by officers in Oakland just before 5am on Saturday (October 18) after an alleged break-in at a home near the Oakland Zoo.
The 36-year-old tragically suffered a 'medical emergency' shortly after, with Oakland Police Department stating that while officers attempted to 'detain the individual, a brief struggle ensued'.
"After being taken into custody, the individual became unresponsive," they added.
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Martin's family have previously spoken out to confirm the former NFL star's passing.
Now, the footballer's agent, Brian Murphy, issued the following statement on Monday on behalf of the star's family: "Athletes First and CEO Brian Murphy had the privilege of representing Doug Martin when he was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft, following a stellar career at Boise State University.
"Doug Martin's distinguished NFL career-including two Pro Bowl appearances and a 2015 All-Pro honor-was celebrated by countless fans. Off the field, Doug was deeply committed to serving the communities of Boise, Idaho, Stockton, and Oakland California, where his generosity and spirit were well known.
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"Privately, Doug battled mental 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."
It 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 had contacted local authorities for support.
"Feeling overwhelmed and disoriented, Doug fled his home during the night and entered a neighbor's residence two doors down, where he was taken into custody by police. An investigation into what transpired as he was detained is underway.
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"The family requests privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking loss."
Martin, who rose to NFL stardom in the early 2010s, had been out of the league for several years.
His death is now under investigation, with the department and internal affairs reviewing the incident.
Tributes have since poured in, with one Buccaneers fan penning on X: "Losing Mike Williams, Vincent Jackson and now Doug Martin - 3 players of my childhood, stars on my favorite team hm gone entirely too soon hits like a freight train. Gone disgustingly too soon. Tell people you love them while you can."
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UNILAD has previously contacted Oakland Police Department for a comment.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].