South Florida man identified among soldiers killed in Africa ambush

U.S. Army Sgt. La-David Johnson survived by pregnant wife, 2 children

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – Loved ones are mourning a South Florida soldier who was recently killed in combat.

U.S. Army Sgt. La-David Johnson, of Miami Gardens, was identified as one of four soldiers who were killed last week in an ambush in the West African country of Niger. 

Before joining the special forces, Johnson graduated from Miami Carol City Senior High School and rode to work at Walmart on his one-wheeled bicycle -- a stunt that later earned him the nickname "Wheelie King 305."

The mayor of Miami Gardens said flags will remain at half-staff in the city until Johnson's funeral service.  

Johnson is survived by his pregnant wife and two children.

He was just 25 years old. 


About the Author:

Sanela Sabovic joined Local 10 News in September 2012 as an assignment editor and associate producer. In August 2015, she became a full-time reporter and fill-in traffic reporter. Sanela holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications with a concentration in radio, television and film from DePaul University.