A homicide investigation has been launched in Los Angeles following the tragic discovery of former Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders player Kevin Johnson, who was found dead near a homeless encampment. The 55-year-old ex-NFL star was located on Wednesday morning with severe head trauma and multiple stab wounds in the vicinity of the 1300 block of East 120th Street, close to Central Avenue.
NFL Career and Post-Retirement Struggles
Kevin Johnson enjoyed a professional football career in the 1990s, having been originally drafted by the New England Patriots in 1993. After brief stints with the Minnesota Vikings practice squad and the Oakland Raiders, his career gained momentum in 1995 when the Philadelphia Eagles claimed him off waivers. During his time with the Eagles, Johnson made 11 appearances in the 1995 season, including two playoff games, and followed up with 12 appearances in 1996 before his release in December of that year. The Raiders subsequently signed him in 1997, where he played 15 times before being released, marking the end of his NFL journey.
Tributes and Allusions to Personal Challenges
Friends and acquaintances paying tribute to Johnson on social media have hinted at significant struggles he faced in his later years. One heartfelt message from a woman identifying as an old high school friend revealed that she had not seen him since 2019 but consistently prayed for his wellbeing. In her post, she wrote, 'The enemy had a tight hold on you with addiction and I had to walk away. We hadn't talked since 2019 though you've tried to reach out but all I could do is pray from a distance.' These comments suggest Johnson battled personal demons, including addiction, during the final chapters of his life.
Investigation and Community Impact
Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Johnson's death, treating it as a homicide due to the nature of his injuries. The location near a homeless encampment adds a layer of complexity to the case, highlighting issues of safety and vulnerability in such areas. Johnson's passing has sent shockwaves through the sports community and beyond, as fans and former colleagues mourn the loss of a player who once graced the NFL fields.
His college career spanned Los Angeles and Texas, showcasing his athletic prowess before entering the professional league. Despite his early promise, Johnson's post-retirement life appears to have been marked by hardship, as alluded to in the social media tributes. The investigation continues as detectives piece together the events leading to his untimely death, with further updates expected as more information comes to light.
