Former NFL player Doug Martin, 36, died in Oakland police custody after a break-in led to a struggle.

Former NFL player Doug Martin, 36, died in Oakland police custody on October 18, 2025, after a break-in at a neighbor’s home triggered a brief struggle during his detention. His family and former agent said he had been battling mental health issues and had recently completed rehab, with his parents having contacted authorities for help before he fled his home. Martin became unresponsive during the encounter and died at a hospital. His family and friends expressed grief, described him as kind and community-minded, and called for transparency, including release of body camera footage. The incident has sparked broader conversations about mental health, police response, and accountability.