Kevin Johnson Death: Possible Link to 3 Other Homeless Killings in Willowbrook

The death last month of former NFL player Kevin Johnson is possibly connected to three other killings of unhoused people in the Willowbrook area of Los Angeles County, according to Los Angeles County detectives. The 55-year-old Johnson, a native of Los Angeles, played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders in the 1990s.

A String of Suspicious Deaths

Johnson was found dead on January 21 at an encampment in the 1300 block of E. 120th Street, near Compton. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner determined his death was caused by “blunt head trauma and stab wounds.” Detectives are investigating whether Johnson’s death is linked to three other homicides of unhoused individuals that occurred in the same vicinity between October 2025 and January 2026.

Did You Know? Kevin Johnson played for both the Philadelphia Eagles and the Oakland Raiders during the 1990s.

A week after Johnson’s death, on January 28, detectives responded to another death in the same area, near a flood control channel. Details surrounding this second death have not been released. Investigators have stated they are pursuing all leads to identify those responsible for these crimes.

The Investigation Continues

The L.A. County Sheriff’s Department released a statement indicating that homicide investigators are actively working to determine if the four deaths are related. Anyone with information is urged to contact the LASD’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.

Expert Insight: The possibility of a serial perpetrator targeting unhoused individuals raises serious concerns about the safety and vulnerability of this population in the Willowbrook area. The ongoing investigation is crucial to understanding the circumstances surrounding these deaths and preventing further harm.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Kevin Johnson found dead?

Kevin Johnson was found dead on January 21, 2026, at an encampment in Willowbrook.

How did Kevin Johnson die?

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner determined that Kevin Johnson died from blunt head trauma and stab wounds.

How many other deaths are being investigated in connection with Kevin Johnson’s death?

Detectives are investigating three other homicides of unhoused people that occurred in the same area between October 2025 and January 2026 and are working to determine if they are related to Johnson’s death.

As detectives continue their investigation, what role might community outreach play in identifying potential witnesses or information related to these tragic events?