Former NFL Player Doug Martin Dead At 36 After Encounter With Police

Former NFL running back Doug Martin died early Saturday while in Oakland police custody, officials said.

The 36-year-old, who played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Oakland Raiders, was taken to a hospital after what authorities described as a “brief struggle” with officers, according to the East Bay Times. Police said they were called around 4:15 a.m. to reports of a break-in at a home on Ettrick Street, a residential area near the Oakland Zoo. (RELATED: Former WWE Champion Sir Mo Dead At 58)

Shortly after, dispatchers received word that the suspected intruder was experiencing a “medical emergency,” the outlet reported.

TAMPA, FL – NOVEMBER 11: Running back Doug Martin #22 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers rushes upfield in the fourth quarter against the San Diego Chargers November 11, 2012 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Tampa won 34 – 24. (Photo by Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images)

Police said the suspect, later identified as Martin, became unresponsive after being detained. Paramedics provided medical aid at the scene before transporting him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead, according to a department statement obtained by the Times.

The cause of death has not been confirmed.

ST. LOUIS, MO – DECEMBER 17: Doug Martin #22 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers rushes in the third quarter against the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome on December 17, 2015 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)

The incident is under investigation by multiple local law enforcement agencies, officials said. The officers involved have been placed on administrative leave in accordance with department policy.

“It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning,” the family said in a statement shared with the East Bay Times. “Cause of death is currently unconfirmed.”

The former NFL player’s family requested “privacy at this time.”

Martin played seven seasons in the NFL after being selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with the 31st overall pick in the 2012 draft out of Boise State. He spent six seasons in Tampa Bay before finishing his career with the Oakland Raiders.