The sports world was devastated by reports of ex-NFL star Doug Martin’s death last week. But after much speculation into the circumstances of his death while in police custody, new details are slowly emerging.
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In the early hours of Saturday (Oct. 18), authorities were called to a residence in Oakland, Calif. According to ESPN, police received a call about an active break-in just after 4:15 a.m. This led to none other than Martin, an Oakland native, being detained and eventually dying in police custody. There is currently an investigation underway by the department. But, Martin’s family spoke out to clarify the tragic situation.
Athletes First, the company that represented Martin during his time in the NFL, wrote in a statement on Monday (Oct. 20) that the former Tampa Bay Buccaneer was having a mental health episode on the morning of his death.
“Doug’s parents were actively seeking medical assistance for him and had contacted local authorities for support,” the statement read. “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.”
The investigation is being handled by the Homicide Section, the Oakland City Police Commission, the Community Police Review Agency, OPD Internal Affairs Bureau and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office. The officers who were involved in the incident were placed on paid administrative leave.
Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee released a statement honoring Martin. She called him “an Oaklander who had a distinguished NFL career,” adding her “condolences are with his family and loved ones.”
Martin was only 36 at the time of his death. He was drafted in 2012 and spent seven season in the league, six of which were with the Buccaneers. He retired with the Oakland Raiders– now Las Vegas Raiders– in 2019.
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