Authorities in Los Angeles have initiated a murder investigation after the body of NFL player Kevin Johnson was discovered near a homeless encampment in the city.
The former Philadelphia Eagles athlete was found on January 21, with injuries that appeared consistent with stabbing and blunt force trauma, as detailed by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s records.
Early findings of the investigation suggest that Johnson, aged 55, was experiencing homelessness and had been residing at the camp.
In a statement updating the public on the investigation, Lt. Steve De Jong noted: “Unfortunately, it appears he was homeless. It looks like he was probably living there.”
The Los Angeles Police Department is actively seeking information from anyone who might know more about the circumstances of his death to aid in the ongoing investigation.
Johnson’s friends shared with ABC News that his declining health forced him to live on the streets.
Bruce Todd, a close friend, shared a heartfelt tribute: “He was my best friend. I was [the] best man at his wedding. He was a great guy, fun-loving. The community is going to miss him.”
According to NBC Sports, no charges have been made yet, and the investigation into Johnson’s death continues.
Johnson began his football journey at Los Angeles Harbor College before transferring to Texas Southern.
He was picked by the New England Patriots in the 1993 draft with the 86th overall selection, although he was released in August of that year.
His career continued when the Philadelphia Eagles took him on for the 1995 season.
Throughout 11 games, he recorded six sacks, 19 tackles, and a fumble recovery, which he returned for a touchdown in a game against the Los Angeles Rams.
In 1996, Johnson returned to the Eagles, achieving one sack and 14 tackles over 12 games, before being released in December.
He proceeded to play for the Oakland Raiders and later joined the Arena Football League, where he played for the Orlando Predators and led them to a championship in 1998.
Johnson concluded his seven-year career in 2001 with the Los Angeles Avengers.
Following news of his passing, football enthusiasts have shared heartfelt tributes to Johnson on social media. One fan wrote: “Man, what’s a legend. Eagle spread his wings and flew higher than ever. Rest easy legend.”
Another commented: “RIP to former #Eagles DT Kevin Johnson. He played two seasons for the Eagles in 1995 and 1996.”
Additionally, someone else expressed: “Saddened to learn of the passing of former Eagles defensive tackle Kevin Johnson.”
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