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Who was Maia Johnson? Keyshawn Johnson mourns death of first daughter, Internet prays for 'peace and strength'

Maia was former NFL star Keyshawn Johnson's first-born child with his ex-wife Shikiri Hightower

Former NFL player Keyshawn Johnson has announced the tragic death of his first-born daughter Maia Johnson, in a heartfelt post on Twitter. The cause of death was not mentioned by Johnson. 

"She came into our lives just as we were both coming of age as adults and has been a constant beloved presence for both of us. We are heartbroken and devastated by her loss. Shikiri, Maia’s siblings, our family and me appreciate your thoughts and prayers at this difficult time," Johnson tweeted. He further said, "We also all appreciate your support and respect for our privacy as we move forward. Thank you all, God Bless. Keyshawn Johnson, Sr. " According to EOnline, Maia's age at the time of death was 25.

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Maia was Johnson's first-born child with his ex-wife Shikiri Hightower. The two got married in 1998 and parted ways in 2002. The two also have a son Keyshawn Johnson Jr. together. Johnson also has two young children London and Vance Johnson with his current wife Jennifer Conrad.

Johnson played for USC in 1994 and 1995. He helped the Trojans to win a 1996 Rose Bowl victory over Northwestern, before becoming the No. 1 overall pick in the 1996 NFL Draft, selected by the New York Jets. He also played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys, and the Carolina Panthers.

As soon as Johnson's tweet came to light, people extended support and wished the young soul to rest in peace. One person replied saying: "Losing a child is hard for a parent no matter what stage in life they’re in... condolence to you and your family..." While another one said, "Oh my goodness I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your daughter. Praying for peace and strength in this incredibly difficult time."

One person said: "God bless you all Key. I wish I had the words to help in some way. May her memory always live with the you and until the day you are reunited. God bless you." And another one tweeted: "Oh man, you definitely will all be in my prayers. May God comfort you all during this time."

Understanding his pain, another person said, "Omg @keyshawn as a father my heart is breaking. May God give you & your family the strength needed to get through this." Talk show host Mark Davis said: "Prayers for the family of #KeyshawnJohnson (Cowboys 04-05) on the news of his daughter's passing."