Margaret Miller Johnson

Margaret Miller Johnson, a 64-year-old woman, was one of the four victims fatally shot on a Chicago Transit Authority Blue Line train in the early morning of September 2, 2024. The incident occurred as the train approached the Forest Park terminal. Johnson, along with the other victims, Simeon Bihesi, 28; Adrian Collins, 60; and Sean Jones, 52, were found shot before 5:30 a.m..

Johnson had a history with Connections for the Homeless in Evanston, Illinois, where she and her late husband Nick had sought assistance. They first came to the organization in 2018, living in a truck, and later moved into Connections' hotel-based shelter at the Margarita European Inn during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the help of Connections, they eventually secured an apartment in Des Plaines through a housing voucher. After Nick's death in 2022, Johnson continued to receive support from the organization, although she declined their aftercare program.

Despite having housing in Des Plaines, Johnson was found sleeping on the Blue Line train, which has raised questions about her recent living situation. It is speculated that she may have lost her housing due to the stigma and shame associated with seeking help again. Johnson had last been in contact with Connections in January 2024, when she picked up a gift card as part of the organization's "Gift of Giving" holiday drive.

The suspect in the shooting, Rhanni Davis, 30, was arrested on the same day as the incident and has been charged with four counts of first-degree murder. Davis has been denied pretrial release.

Margaret Miller Johnson is remembered by those at Connections for the Homeless for her sweet demeanor and beautiful smile. She was described as one of the easiest and sweetest people to work with by the staff who knew her. Connections for the Homeless plans to honor her memory, along with the other victims, during their annual memorial service on September 24, 2024.