The NFL world was shocked to learn that Doug Martin passed away in Oakland, California, on Oct. 18 at the age of 36. Police had responded to a home invasion in Oakland that night and took Martin into custody .
Martin’s family had called 911 earlier that evening, reporting that the former running back was experiencing a mental health emergency and had run from the house .
TMZ Sports obtained and released footage of Doug Martin acting irregularly on the night of his tragic death . The video shows Martin walking through a neighbor’s backyard .
Police body-cam footage shows officers arriving at the home and managing to handcuff a distressed Martin following a brief struggle .
Officials are still investigating Martin’s death, and the officers involved in the arrest were placed on administrative leave .
Burris’ mention of CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) is significant. The family quickly donated Martin’s body to the Boston University CTE Center following his death .
Martin’s mother, Leslie Martin, said she had yet to view the footage but added that “it’s clear he was struggling from these mental health issues, and that he was having a psychotic moment.”
A promising NFL career. Years of battling mental health issues. And a tragic end that raises more questions than answers.