Former NFL defensive lineman Kevin Johnson died from “blunt head trauma and stab wounds” at a homeless encampment in Los Angeles’ Willowbrook area, according to the medical examiner.
Johnson, 55, died Wednesday morning after being found unconscious at the encampment in southern Los Angeles County, according to the medical examiner. Deputies responded to the location after a report of an unconscious man in the 1300 block of East 120th Street.
His death was ruled a homicide and is under investigation. No arrests were reported Friday.
Investigators said they believe Johnson had been living at the encampment at the time of his death.
After he was drafted in the fourth round by New England in 1993, Kevin Johnson went on to play for the Patriots, Vikings, Raiders and Eagles. Johnson finished with 43 tackles, including seven sacks, and returned a fumble for a touchdown in two years with the Eagles.
He played 15 games for Oakland in 1997.
Johnson later played in the Arena Football League for Orlando and Los Angeles. The Los Angeles native played collegiately at Texas Southern.
Anyone with information was asked to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau.
