Elijah Johnson / Photo from Aurora Beacon-News
BY WILL HAGER
Homicide Watch Chicago
Even after his athletes competed, the track meet was far from over for Aurora Flyers long jump coach Elijah Johnson.
Johnson was known for helping opposing athletes and offering technical advice to competitors, Flyers head coach Tom Boatright said.
Johnson, 50, was fatally shot about 8:15 p.m. Dec. 26 in the 1600 block of South Central Park Avenue, authorities said. Johnson, of Oswego, answered the front door of a West Side home and two men attempted to force their way inside to see a girl.
A fight ensued, and one of the men shot Johnson in the chest, authorities said. He died a short time later at Mount Sinai Hospital.
The men fled after the shooting and have not yet been captured and charged.
Track coaches from across the nation flooded Boatright with their condolences after receiving word of Johnson’s death. Johnson worked as the Flyers long jump coach for more than 17 years.
“I’ll remember his smile, caring for athletes, being a better human being. He always talked to the athletes about coming back after they leave and giving back to the community,” Boatright said.
Johnson was born in Vicksburg, Miss., and later moved to the Chicago area. He graduated from East Aurora High School in 1981 and still holds the school triple jump record.
Boatright described Johnson as a pillar in the community who worked a variety of handyman jobs in addition to coaching.
Lance Wallace said Johnson he prepared athletes to be successful on and off the track.
“In the African-American community, economic empowerment is vital to improving the quality of life,” Wallace said. “[Johnson] had a tremendous impact on the community because he helped students increase their earning capability by getting them into college and jobs and mentoring them.”
About 1,000 people attended Johnson’s standing room only funeral, Wallace said. The turnout reflected Johnson’s active presence in the community.
Johnson leaves behind his wife Jacqueline; daughters Sharlinda and Shaque; and his father, Charlie.