The stabbing death of former NFL player Kevin Johnson is now part of a broader homicide investigation in Los Angeles. And police are trying to figure out if a serial killer is targeting the city's homeless population.
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Johnson, a 55-year-old former defensive lineman for the Eagles, was found dead on January 21 in a Compton Creek encampment where he had been living. The LA County Medical Examiner ruled the death a homicide, citing blunt force trauma and stab wounds.
Now, investigators say Johnson's killing may be linked to three other murders in the same area near Willowbrook, all involving unhoused victims.
According to ABC7 News, LA County Sheriff's detectives are looking into whether the four deaths are connected. So far, no arrests have been made.
The first case happened October 5, 2025. Michelle Steele, 52, was shot in the head and later died at the hospital in November. Then on December 4, 52-year-old Octavio Arias was found dead in the same area with trauma to his head and neck.
Five days after Johnson's death, another man in his 50s, identified as Maura Alfaro, was killed. His cause of death was also blunt force trauma.
It's a disturbing pattern.
Investigators say they have no solid link between the murders yet, but are looking into possible motives — including drugs, gang activity, or someone targeting the homeless directly.
Law enforcement has struggled to get cooperation from the encampment. County outreach workers are also trying to relocate people out of the area, fearing there could be more violence ahead.
Police are now asking the public for help. Anyone with information is urged to contact homicide detectives or call Crime Stoppers.
