The son of a 55-year-old former NFL player, who was found dead in a homeless encampment in the unincorporated Willowbrook area of Los Angeles County, issued a statement Friday saying his father’s homicide has left him and others with a huge void in their lives.
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s homicide detectives were investigating the killing of Kevin Johnson, an L.A. native whose death was reported about 7:30 a.m. on Jan. 21 in the 1300 block of East 120th Street, near Central Avenue at a homeless encampment.
The county medical examiner’s office reported his cause of death was head trauma and stab wounds and the manner was homicide..
Johnson was a former NFL defensive lineman who was drafted in 1993 by the New England Patriots. He later played with the Philadelphia Eagles and left the league after spending his final season in 1997 with the then-Oakland Raiders.
He went on to play in the Arena Football League for the Orlando Predators and the Los Angeles Avengers, winning an Arena Bowl while with the Predators.
“My father’s death is a heartbreaking tragedy, especially because he was a constant presence in my life,: said Branden Johnson. “There was not a single day he didn’t call to check on me, asking if I worked out, if I prayed, how his granddaughter was doing, and reminding me how much he loved me and how proud he was. The absence of those daily calls has created an indescribable silence.
“My father was a loving, caring and truly joyful man whose presence brought warmth to everyone around him. He had a rare gift for making people feel seen, welcomed and appreciated, never judging and always looking out for others. Even through life’s difficulties, he held happiness in his heart and shared it freely with those he loved. My dad was selfless, loyal and deeply cherished. His absence leaves a huge void, but his love, laughter and spirit will live on through everyone whose life he touched.”
Anyone with information about Johnson’s death was asked to contact Lt. Steve De Jong, who is in charge of the investigation, at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477) or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.