The parents of former All-Pro NFL running back Doug Martin have filed a federal wrongful death lawsuit, alleging that excessive force by police officers and delayed medical treatment led to their son’s death during a mental health crisis in October 2025.
The lawsuit, filed against the City of Oakland, multiple Oakland police officers, and an ambulance company, claims Martin was restrained face down while officers applied pressure to his back after responding to reports of a break-in. According to the complaint, that restraint was a substantial factor in causing the 36-year-old’s death.
Martin’s parents also allege officers failed to promptly summon medical assistance after he became unresponsive. The suit further claims that when paramedics arrived, they delayed providing critical medical care, worsening the situation.
The Oakland Police Department has declined to comment publicly on the allegations, citing the pending litigation. Officials previously stated that Martin became unresponsive following what they described as a “brief struggle” while officers attempted to detain him.
An independent autopsy commissioned by Martin’s family reportedly concluded that restraint-related asphyxia contributed to his death, while the official autopsy process remains ongoing.
Martin, affectionately known as the “Muscle Hamster,” enjoyed a standout NFL career after starring at Boise State Broncos football. He was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft, earning two Pro Bowl selections and First-Team All-Pro honors during his career. He later finished his NFL career with the Oakland Raiders.
The lawsuit seeks damages while also aiming to establish accountability for the circumstances surrounding Martin’s death.
