Former NFL star Doug Martin, known as “Muscle Hamster,” tragically passed away following a medical emergency after being taken into custody. Oakland police officers have been placed on administrative leave as an investigation unfolds.
Doug Martin, the former NFL running back who earned the nickname “Muscle Hamster” during his standout career, tragically passed away at the age of 36. Martin’s death came after an incident on October 18, 2025, when he was taken into custody by Oakland police following a reported break-in near the Oakland Zoo.
According to law enforcement sources, Martin was detained around 5 a.m. that Saturday morning. Police were responding to a break-in at a nearby home when they learned of an individual experiencing a medical emergency, believed to be the same person involved in the break-in. Upon arrival, officers found Martin inside the residence and attempted to detain him. A brief struggle occurred before he was taken into custody.
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Once in custody, Martin became unresponsive, prompting paramedics to arrive on the scene and provide medical aid. He was quickly transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment, but unfortunately, he passed away later that morning. The cause of his death has yet to be confirmed.
In response to the incident, the Oakland Police Department released a statement confirming the man’s death but did not initially identify Martin by name. The department has launched an investigation, and those officers involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave as part of the standard procedure in such cases. The investigation is being handled by the department’s homicide unit.
Martin, who was born in California, had a stellar NFL career, notably with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he set records during his rookie season in 2012. His impressive performance earned him multiple Pro Bowl selections and the admiration of fans. The Buccaneers paid tribute to their former player, expressing their sadness at the sudden loss.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of Doug Martin,” the Buccaneers wrote in a statement. “Doug made a lasting impact on our franchise, from his record-setting rookie season to his multiple Pro Bowl selections during his six seasons as a Buccaneer.”
Tributes from fans across the nation have poured in, with many remembering Martin’s contributions to the NFL and the impact he had on their lives. One fan expressed their grief on social media, writing, “Losing Mike Williams, Vincent Jackson, and now Doug Martin – three players of my childhood, stars on my favorite team gone entirely too soon.”
Martin’s unexpected death has left many mourning, and the ongoing investigation by the Oakland Police Department will hopefully provide answers regarding the circumstances surrounding his passing.
