The family of former Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Doug Martin laid out the tragic final moments of his life before his sudden death over the weekend.
In a letter released by Martin’s agent, Brian Murphy, on behalf of the Martin family on Monday, October 20, it was acknowledged that the late NFL running back “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.”
After news of Martin’s death on Saturday, October 18, his family aimed to “clarify the circumstances.”
“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 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 requested privacy “as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.” Martin was 36 years old.
According to the East Bay Times, Martin died at a hospital on Saturday morning, after police responded to reports of a home break-in just after 4:15 a.m. in East Oakland.
Police were made aware that the suspected burglar, believed to be Martin, was having “a medical emergency,” according to a statement by the Oakland Police Department.
After a “brief struggle” with police, the suspected burglar became unresponsive after being taken into custody.
There was a “brief struggle” when police contacted the alleged burglar, who then became unresponsive after being taken into custody, according to police. The individual was taken to a local hospital, where they later died.
An official cause of death has not been released.
The police officers who were involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave, per department policy.
Following a standout college career at Boise State University, Martin was selected by the Buccaneers in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft.
He played the first six seasons of his NFL career with the Buccaneers, where he was selected to two Pro Bowls and named to the All-Pro team in 2015.
Martin played the final year of his NFL career with the Oakland Raiders in 2018.
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“We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin,” the Buccaneers wrote in a statement on social media on Sunday, October 19. “From his record-setting rookie season in 2012 to his multiple Pro Bowl selections during his six seasons as a Buccaneer, Doug made a lasting impact on our franchise.”
The statement continued, “He was a fan favorite during his time in Tampa Bay and was honored as one of the Top 50 Buccaneers of all time for his numerous achievements. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and everyone whom Doug touched throughout his life.”
Oakland mayor Barbara Lee issued a statement about Martin’s death on Monday.
“We mourn the loss of Doug Martin, an Oaklander who had a distinguished NFL career and tragically passed away Saturday morning,” Lee, 79, said. “Our condolences are with his family and loved ones.”
