David Johnson, the former India and Karnataka cricketer, tragically passed away at the age of 52 after a suspected suicide. Johnson fell from the balcony of his fourth-floor apartment in Kanaka Sri Layout, Kothanur. The Kothanur Police are investigating the incident to confirm whether it was indeed a suicide.
Reports from Republic World indicate that Johnson had been battling depression and was not in good health recently. He is survived by his wife and two children.
An official from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) recounted the incident: “We were informed that he had fallen from the fourth floor of his apartment building. He was taken to Crescent Hospital, but the doctors declared him brought dead.”
A police official added, “It is believed that 52-year-old David Jude Johnson fell from his apartment in Kanaka Sri Layout in Kothanur, giving rise to the suspicion of suicide.”
The cricketing community has been deeply affected by Johnson’s untimely death. Former cricketers Anil Kumble and Gautam Gambhir were among those who expressed their sorrow and offered condolences.
“Saddened to hear the passing of my cricketing colleague David Johnson. Heartfelt condolences to his family. Gone too soon, ‘Benny’!” said Kumble.
Gambhir tweeted, “Saddened by the passing away of David Johnson. May God give strength to his family and loved ones.”
BCCI secretary Jay Shah also shared his condolences on social media: “Deepest condolences to family and friends of our former Indian fast bowler David Johnson. His contributions to the game will always be remembered.”
Johnson had a brief international career, playing two matches for India. However, fitness issues curtailed his opportunities on the international stage. Despite these setbacks, he had a successful domestic career with Karnataka and was running a cricket academy near his home at the time of his death.