Ex-NFL Player's Murder Sparks Serial Killer Fears in Los Angeles
Los Angeles authorities are investigating a potential serial killer after discovering connections between the murder of former NFL player Kevin Johnson and three other killings of homeless individuals in the city. The disturbing pattern has raised alarms about the safety of some of Los Angeles' most vulnerable residents.
Four Homeless Victims Found Dead in Similar Circumstances
Kevin Johnson, a 55-year-old former professional football player, was found dead on January 21, 2026, inside a homeless encampment in the Willowbrook area of south Los Angeles. According to the sheriff's department, Johnson suffered from stab wounds and significant head trauma.
Police have now confirmed that three other unhoused individuals were murdered in nearby areas within recent months. All four victims shared several disturbing similarities that have led investigators to consider the possibility of a serial killer targeting homeless populations.
Patterns Emerge in Violent Crimes
The murders occurred within a relatively small geographic area and all targeted homeless victims living in encampments. The timeframe for these crimes spans from October 2025 through January 2026, creating a concentrated period of violence against vulnerable individuals.
While the methods of killing varied among the victims—including stabbing, shooting, and beating—detectives are investigating all four cases together due to their uncanny similarities. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department stated in an official release: "All four victims were unhoused individuals who were living in encampments."
A Football Career Cut Short by Tragedy
Kevin Johnson's football journey included stints with multiple NFL teams. He was originally drafted by the New England Patriots in 1993 and went on to play for the Minnesota Vikings, Oakland Raiders, and Philadelphia Eagles. His most notable season came in 1997 when he appeared in 15 games for the Raiders.
After his NFL career, Johnson continued playing professional football in the Arena Football League for four seasons with teams in Orlando and Los Angeles. Friends and family members have indicated that health problems later in life contributed to Johnson's financial struggles, which eventually led to him living in the encampment where he was killed.
Family and Football Community Mourn Loss
A week after Johnson's death, his son Branden shared an emotional tribute to his father, describing him as "a loving, caring, and truly joyful man whose presence brought warmth to everyone around him." Branden recalled daily phone calls from his father checking on his well-being, his exercise routine, and his granddaughter's health.
"The absence of those daily calls has created an indescribable silence," Branden Johnson stated in his tribute, painting a picture of a man who maintained positivity despite life's difficulties.
The Oakland Raiders organization released a statement remembering Johnson's time with the team, noting that "the prayers of the entire Raider Nation are with Kevin's family at this time." The football community has expressed shock and sadness at the violent end to Johnson's life.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Concerns
Homicide investigators have emphasized their commitment to solving these crimes, stating they are "continuing to chase down all leads" and are "committed to identifying the individual or individuals responsible for these crimes."
The potential connection between these murders has raised significant concerns about the safety of homeless individuals in Los Angeles, particularly those living in encampments. Community advocates are calling for increased protection and resources for vulnerable populations as the investigation continues.
As authorities work to determine whether a serial killer is indeed targeting homeless individuals in Los Angeles, the city faces difficult questions about how to protect its most at-risk residents while pursuing justice for Kevin Johnson and the three other victims.
