Officials Suggest Ex-NFL Player Kevin Johnson’s L.A. Death Tied to 3 Killings
The recent death of Kevin Johnson, a former NFL player, has raised concerns about potential connections to three additional unsolved homicides involving homeless individuals in Los Angeles County. Johnson, aged 55, was discovered on January 21 in a homeless encampment near a flood control channel in Willowbrook, suffering from significant head trauma.
Details Surrounding Kevin Johnson’s Death
Johnson’s demise was confirmed by paramedics at the scene. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department reported that the cause of death was blunt head trauma combined with stab wounds. Investigators believe he was residing in the encampment at the time of his death.
Connections to Other Homicides
Law enforcement officials have identified three other victims who were also homeless and met similar fates in encampments along East 120th Street. These murders occurred between October and January, with all cases remaining unresolved. The sheriff’s department stated:
- All four deceased individuals were living in encampments.
- Investigators are actively pursuing leads to find those responsible.
- The sheriff’s detectives are collaborating with outreach workers in the homeless community to gather more information.
Recent Developments
On January 26, another homicide was reported nearly at the same location where Johnson was found. Paramedics responded to a report of a deceased individual found in a nearby riverbed. Unfortunately, details regarding the specific circumstances and dates of the other two killings have not yet been clarified.
Kevin Johnson’s Background
Kevin Johnson had a notable NFL career, primarily playing as a defensive lineman for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Oakland Raiders in the 1990s. He is remembered by his son, Brendan Johnson, as a loving and selfless person. Brendan described his father as “caring and truly joyful,” emphasizing the emotional impact of his absence.
Investigative Call for Information
The sheriff’s department is urging anyone with information related to these killings to come forward. The investigation continues as detectives work diligently to uncover the truth behind these tragic events.
Willowbrook, where Johnson was found, is located just south of the city of Los Angeles. It is home to the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital, and the flood control channel where these incidents have occurred is identified as Compton Creek.
