The family of All-Pro NFL running back Doug Martin has revealed his tragic battle with mental health problems days after the retired Tampa Bay Buccaneers star died in police custody at age 36.
Martin’s former agent, Athletes First CEO Brian Murphy, released a statement on behalf of his family Monday with the aim of clarifying the circumstances that led to his death last week.
‘Privately, Doug battled mental health challenges that profoundly impacted his personal and professional life,’ the statement read. ‘Ultimately, mental illness proved to be the one opponent from which Doug could not run.
‘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.’
Martin was arrested Saturday in Oakland and transported by paramedics to a hospital, where he died.
Doug Martin is seen carrying the ball during a walkthrough at Bucs training camp in 2017
Police said he was involved in a break-in that resulted in a ‘brief struggle’ with officers as they tried to detain him. No other details have been released by police. An autopsy will be conducted, according to the Alameda County Coroner’s Office.
The family has requested privacy as they deal with their loss.
Martin went from Stockton, California’s St. Mary’s High School to Boise State before being taken in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft.
‘Doug Martin’s distinguished NFL career-including two Pro Bowl appearances and a 2015 All-Pro honor was celebrated by countless fans,’ read the statement from Athletes First. ‘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.’
Martin finished his impressive NFL career with 5,356 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns in addition to 148 receptions for another 1,207 yards and a pair of scores.
‘We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin,’ the Buccaneers said in a statement. ‘Doug made a lasting impact on our franchise.’
Martin was chosen among the top 50 players in Bucs history when the franchise celebrated its 50th anniversary last season.
