The family of former Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Doug Martin has detailed the tragic final moments of his life before his sudden death over the weekend at age 36.
In a letter released by Martin’s agent Brian Murphy on social media on October 20, the family acknowledged that the late NFL running back "struggled with mental health issues that deeply affected his personal and professional life." They stated that mental illness ultimately became the only opponent Doug could not defeat.
Following news of Martin’s death on Saturday, October 18, his family sought to "clarify the circumstances" surrounding it.
"Doug’s parents were actively seeking medical assistance for him and had contacted local authorities for support," the statement explained. "Feeling overwhelmed and disoriented, Doug fled his home overnight and entered a neighbor’s house, two doors away, where he was taken into police custody."
An investigation into what occurred during his detention is currently underway. The family has requested privacy as they navigate this painful loss.
According to the East Bay Times, Martin died at a hospital early Saturday morning. This followed police responding to reports of a home invasion shortly after 4:15 AM local time in East Oakland.
The Oakland Police Department stated that the alleged burglar, believed to be Martin, was experiencing "a medical emergency."
After a brief struggle with police, the individual became unresponsive while in custody. He was transported to a local hospital, where he later passed away.
The official cause of death has not yet been disclosed. The police officers involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave, in accordance with department regulations.
Martin had a distinguished college career at Boise State University before being selected by the Buccaneers in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft.
He played his first six NFL seasons with the Buccaneers, earning two Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro nod in 2015. Martin concluded his NFL career with the Oakland Raiders in 2018.
The Buccaneers released a statement on social media on October 19, expressing their deep sadness. "From his historic rookie season in 2012 to his multiple Pro Bowl selections during his six seasons as a Buccaneer, Doug left a lasting mark on our franchise," the statement read.
The team remembered him as a "fan favorite" and "one of the 50 greatest Buccaneers of all time." They extended their sincerest condolences to his family, friends, and everyone he touched.
Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee also issued a statement on Monday regarding Martin’s death.
"We mourn the loss of Doug Martin, an Oakland resident who had a distinguished NFL career and tragically passed away Saturday morning," Mayor Lee said. "Our condolences are with his family and loved ones."