Former NFL player Martin dies in police custody in California

Former National Football League (NFL) moving backmost Doug Martin has died aged 36 while successful constabulary custody successful California.

The Oakland Police Department said nan erstwhile American shot prima - who spent astir of his profession pinch nan Tampa Bay Buccaneers - died aft being progressive successful an alleged location break-in and a struggle pinch officers connected Saturday.

"While attempting to detain nan individual, a little struggle ensued," nan section said, adding Martin became unresponsive and was taken to a hospital, wherever he later died.

His family announced his passing and said his origin of decease was "unconfirmed".

"It is pinch awesome sadness to pass you each that Doug Martin passed distant Saturday morning," his family told US media. The family asked for "privacy astatine this time".

In a statement, Martin's erstwhile team, nan Tampa Bay Buccaneers, said they were "deeply saddened to study of nan abrupt and unexpected passing of Doug Martin".

"From his record-setting rookie play successful 2012 to his aggregate Pro Bowl selections during his six seasons arsenic a Buccaneer, Doug made a lasting effect connected our franchise," nan squad added.

Born successful Oakland, California, Martin was Tampa Bay's first-round prime successful nan 2012 NFL draft. During his first season, Martin rushed for 1,454 yards and scored 11 touchdowns.

Martin spent six of his 7 NFL seasons playing for nan Buccaneers, and was nicknamed nan "Muscle Hamster" because of his precocious spot contempt being comparatively short for a master subordinate astatine 5ft 9in (1.75m) tall.

But he struggled pinch injuries and was besides suspended successful 2016 for 4 games for violating nan NFL's supplier policy, aft testing affirmative for a banned substance. He apologised and went to a supplier curen facility.

Martin spent his last play pinch nan Oakland Raiders, who are now based successful Las Vegas, successful 2018.