Los Angeles, CA. A former NFL defensive lineman who once spent part of his professional career with the San Francisco 49ers has been identified as one of the victims in a disturbing homicide investigation.
Authorities now believe the case could be connected to a possible serial killer targeting unhoused individuals.
Kevin Johnson, 55, was found dead on January 21 near a homeless encampment in Los Angeles.
Police said he suffered severe head trauma along with multiple stab wounds, and paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.
Investigators now believe Johnson’s killing may be linked to at least three other murders that occurred between October and January in nearby encampments within the Willowbrook area.
Authorities confirmed that all victims were unhoused individuals, raising concerns about a pattern of targeted violence.
Law enforcement officials said another homicide occurred near the same location just days later, intensifying fears that a single perpetrator or group may be behind the attacks.
Detectives continue to pursue leads as they work to determine whether the cases are connected.
Johnson entered the NFL after being selected in the fourth round of the 1993 NFL Draft out of Texas Southern.
During his professional career, he spent time with multiple teams, including a stint with the San Francisco 49ers, where he continued to pursue his dream at the highest level of the sport.
Family members and friends remembered Johnson as a loving father and compassionate person who cared deeply about those around him.
His son described him as someone who “would give the shirt off his back” to help others in need.
Those close to Johnson have also expressed concerns that he may have been dealing with chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a brain condition associated with repeated head trauma, though this has not been officially confirmed.
Authorities say the focus now remains on finding answers and bringing justice as the investigation continues into what could be one of the most troubling homicide patterns in the area in recent months.