On January 21, former NFL player Kevin Johnson was found with head trauma at a homeless encampment in Los Angeles. He was later pronounced dead at the scene.
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After some further investigation, authorities believe his death may be linked to three other killings involving homeless people in the area.
"The department said Tuesday night that three other homeless people have been killed in the area along East 120th Street on the southwestern edge of the Willowbrook community, all at homeless encampments along the same channel," NBC News reported.
Police have now released a statement regarding their current theory.
"All four victims were unhoused individuals who were living in encampments," a statement read. "Homicide investigators continue to pursue all investigative leads and remain committed to identifying the individual or individuals responsible for these crimes."
Authorities are now working in conjunction with homeless outreach workers. They are also appealing for anyone with further information to get in touch. Furthermore, Johnson's cause of death has now been released, citing head trauma and stab wounds.
The latest incident in that area also involved a homeless man, occurring on January 26, five days after Johnson's passing.
Kevin Johnson Spent Two Seasons With the Philadelphia Eagles
Kevin Johnson was originally drafted into the NFL by the New England Patriots with the 86th overall pick in 1993. Shortly later, he was cut. It took him two years to get back into the league, signing with the Philadelphia Eagles.
In his first season with the Eagles, he registered six sacks, 19 tackles, and a touchdown via fumble recovery. He stated 11 games. His second season saw him make 12 appearances before being cut in December. He didn't return to the league for the rest of the season.
However, Johnson got another opportunity to impress in 1997, signing with the Oakland Raiders. He played 15 games in Oakland, registering 11 tackles.
His season with the Raiders proved to be his last in the NFL. He did, however, spend some time in the Arena Football League, winning the 1998 championship with the Orlando Predators.
The investigation surrounding Johnson's death, and the suspected link with other homicides in the area, continues.
