Doug Martin (†) © ANSA / ERIK S. LESSER / STF

After burglary and police intervention: Ex-NFL star dies

Former NFL professional Doug Martin has died in connection with a police operation following a burglary.

21 October 2025

From: dpa

The exact cause of death of the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Oakland Raiders football player will be determined through an autopsy, Oakland police said.

"Prior to his death, Martin was involved in a burglary at a property in Oakland," the statement reads. During an attempt to arrest the 36-year-old, a scuffle broke out between him and police officers. Martin was eventually taken into custody and was subsequently unresponsive. He was taken to the hospital and died there.

Family reports mental problems

Martin's family released a statement through his former agent, saying the former professional had mental health issues: "That was the one opponent he couldn't outrun." On the night of the police raid, his family turned to the authorities for help. Martin fled his home and stayed at a nearby neighbor's house.

Several authorities are now investigating the circumstances that led to the death of the former professional athlete. The mayor of Oakland expressed her condolences to Martin's family. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, for whom Martin played six seasons, cited the "great impact" the professional had on the team in a statement.

Martin played running back and scored 32 career touchdowns. He was twice nominated to the Pro Bowl and once selected to the NFL All-Pro team. He played his final game in December 2018.