Coroner releases Dauphin County teen’s autopsy
DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) — As family and community members in Lower Paxton Township mourn the death of 16-year-old Central Dauphin High School student Justin Johnson, the Dauphin County Coroner has released the results of Johnson’s autopsy.
According to the coroner, Johnson’s official cause of death was complications of sickle cell disease. The coroner also identified cardiomyopathy — a heart disorder — as another significant condition.
The manner of death was ruled natural.
The coroner says Johnson passed away after falling unconscious in his home on Bianca Way on Friday night, April 26.
Security footage from Friday night shows Johnson going outside and then appears to show him and several other boys running while racially insensitive language is being used.
Lower Paxton Township Police have not identified the other boys who were at Johnson’s house and said they planned on playing tag. Johnson had planned to try out for the football team and officials have said the other boys involved were members of the tema.
Angela Wydra, President of the Central Dauphin Rams Club, released a statement saying, in part, “It’s important for us to acknowledge that Justin’s passing has raised concerns about alleged hazing and racism within the team. As an organization in support of the team, we take these allegations seriously and are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our players.”
Wydra offered condolences toward the Johnson family and invited the community to a memorial service in Koons Park at 5 p.m. on Tuesday.
Police in Lower Paxton Township are still investigating the events leading up to Johnson’s death. They are asking anyone with video or information to contact them directly at 717-558-5900.
Today, April 30, would have been Johnson’s 17th birthday.
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