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Athletes First CEO Brian Murphy said the retired running back was dealing with mental health issues in the days before California authorities were asked to get involved by Martin’s family. Martin died on Saturday after an incident while in police custody.
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) stretches before an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, Oct. 22, 2017, in Orchard Park, New York. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus, File)
“Privately, Doug battled mental health challenges that deeply affected his personal and professional life,” the statement read. “Mental illness ultimately proved to be the one adversary that Doug could not outrun.
“Following recent media reports of Doug’s untimely passing, the family wants to clarify the circumstances. Doug’s parents actively sought medical attention 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 an investigation into which he was turned over. An investigation is ongoing.”
Oakland police have also released more information about Martin’s death.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) during the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2017, in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken, File)
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“Prior to his death, Martin was involved in a burglary at a residence in Oakland,” police said in a news release. “As the responding officers attempted to detain him, a brief struggle ensued. After being taken into custody, Martin became unresponsive.
“Paramedics responded to the scene, rendered medical aid and transported Martin to a local hospital where he later died.”
Police said they have been in contact with Martin’s family since the incident on Saturday and the situation remains under investigation.
Martin’s death was announced on Sunday. He was 36.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) against St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome on December 17, 2017. (Aaron Doster/USA TODAY Sports)
He played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Oakland Raiders during his career.
