Former NFL star Doug Martin was dealing with ‘mental health issues’ before he died, rep says
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Former NFL star Doug Martin’s agent provided clarity on the circumstances surrounding his death Monday by issuing a statement on behalf of the late player’s family.
Athletes First CEO Brian Murphy said the retired runner was dealing with mental health issues in the days before Martin’s family asked California authorities to get involved. 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, Sunday, Oct. 22, 2017, in Orchard Park, New York. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus, File)
“Privately, Doug struggled with mental health issues that deeply impacted his personal and professional life,” the statement said. “In the end, mental illness turned out to be the only opponent that Doug couldn’t escape.
“Following recent media reports of Doug’s untimely passing, the family would like to clarify the circumstances. 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 detained by police. An investigation is underway into what happened when he was detained”.
Oakland police 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, November 12, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken, File)
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“Prior to his death, Martin was involved in a robbery at a residence in Oakland,” police said in a news release. “As responding officers attempted to take him into custody, a brief struggle ensued. After being taken into custody, Martin became unresponsive.
“Paramedics responded to the scene, provided medical assistance and transported Martin to a local hospital, where he later died.”
Police said they have been in contact with Martin’s family since Saturday’s incident and the situation remains under investigation.
Martin’s death was announced Sunday. He was 36 years old.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) against the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome on December 17, 2017. (Aaron Doster/USA TODAY Sports)
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He played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Oakland Raiders during his career.
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Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor at News Digital.