Aurora MMA Fighter Found Dead Took His Own Life, Family Says

AURORA, IL — The family of an Aurora resident and mixed martial arts fighting champion who was found dead in his car near a Schaumburg hotel last week said on Monday that the man took his own life.

Trevon Lawson had not been seen since April 16 when his family announced on May 1 that he was missing. Lawson’s family said he had struggled with depression in the past. On Monday, his family released a statement saying that they were heartbroken to announce that Lawson had died by suicide.

“We are appreciative of the support from our extended communities,” the family’s statement said. “We extend a heartfelt thank you to the Aurora and Schaumburg police departments, who were responsive and supportive during our search for Trevon.

“We would also like to thank members of the Chicago-area media who immediately broadcast the news about our missing person and stayed the course with us.”

Lawson, who also spent time in Oswego and Schaumburg, was an MMA standout who was ranked No. 10 in the state in the 155-pound weight division. He fought under the name of The Last Shinobi. Despite his past struggles with depression, Lawson's family said he was dedicated to his fighting career, his family, and his friends before he went missing.

“Finally, and of greatest note, thank you to our community (family and friends) who responded to our call for help by personally searching for our champ, ultimately leading to his location, and the start of this difficult but needed journey of healing and closure,” the family said in a statement.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, no matter how serious it might seem, please immediately call a crisis line at "988", or the National Suicide Prevention Line at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).