Authorities in Los Angeles are investigating whether the death of ex-NFL player Kevin Johnson is connected to three other homicides near a homeless encampment.
Last month, Johnson, who once played for the Philadelphia Eagles, was discovered dead at a homeless encampment located at the 1300 block of E. 120th Street in Willowbrook.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner reported that Johnson succumbed to ‘blunt head trauma and stab wounds’ at the age of 55.
Initial investigations indicate that Johnson was homeless and residing at the encampment when the tragic event occurred.
Authorities are now examining a potential connection between Johnson’s death and the murders of three other homeless individuals in the vicinity between October 2025 and January 2026.
The LA County Sheriff’s Department stated in a press release: “Investigators are working to determine whether these cases are related.”
On October 5, 2025, Michelle Steele, a 52-year-old woman, was shot in the head and passed away a month later on November 12, 2025.
Shortly after, on December 4, 52-year-old Octavio Arias was killed in the same Los Angeles area, with her death resulting from head and neck trauma.
Mauro Alfaro, also believed to be in his 50s, was murdered on January 26, with the cause of death recorded as blunt force trauma.
The sheriff’s department added: “Homicide investigators continue to pursue all investigative leads and remain committed to identifying the individual or individuals responsible for these crimes.
“Homicide Bureau investigators are seeking the public’s assistance and encourages anyone with information related to any of these incidents to come forward and contact Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.”
Those with information can also reach out to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477).
Johnson’s untimely death was a significant blow to the NFL community, with a close friend revealing to ABC News that health issues had contributed to Johnson’s homelessness.
“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,” the friend expressed.
No arrests have been made in connection with Johnson’s murder.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].