According to KFGO News in Fargo, N.D., and the Grand Forks Herald, a body found near railroad tracks near downtown Fargo Monday was that of former North Dakota player Chad Johnson.
Johnson resigned as head coach of the USHL’s Lincoln Stars in September and was a former assistant with the USHL’s Fargo Force.
Johnson was just 43 and played at UND from 1990-93.
“On behalf of the entire WCHA, we would like to pass along our sincere thoughts and prayers to the Johnson family, to all who were fortunate enough to know him for the great and gregarious person he was, and to the entire University of North Dakota family on this tragic loss,” said WCHA commissioner Bruce McLeod in a statement.
Most recently, Johnson was the was head coach of Lincoln for three seasons before stepping down in September, citing health issues.
KFGO reported Monday that Fargo police said a 43-year-old man was spotted by a passing train crew along the tracks behind Nelson International in the 4100 block of Main Ave.
It appeared the man was hit by an earlier train.
Police said they did not suspect foul play.
Johnson’s brother, Steve Johnson, was an assistant coach at Nebraska-Omaha last season.
Chad Johnson leaves behind a six-year-old son.
