Kenny Johnson, a 62-year-old environmental supervisor with Rockdale County’s Soil and Water Conservation District, tragically passed away on Tuesday after collapsing just moments following a public testimony on the devastating chemical fire at the BioLab plant in Conyers, Georgia.
Johnson, a fierce advocate for environmental justice, had been attending a public hearing near the Georgia State Capitol, where the focus was assessing the long-term impact of the toxic plume caused by the fire.
The incident occurred during a critical session evaluating the fallout from the September 29 fire at BioLab, located roughly 30 miles east of Atlanta. BioLab, a manufacturer of pool and spa chemicals, experienced a chemical fire that sent hazardous fumes and smoke into the air. Early reports indicate that a sprinkler malfunction led to a dangerous chemical reaction, resulting in a toxic plume that raised alarms for nearby communities.
Johnson had been at the forefront of efforts to hold the company accountable for what he described as years of negligence. In his testimony, Johnson passionately called for a criminal investigation into BioLab’s safety practices, marking his second formal request for such an inquiry. He specifically asked for intervention by the Department of Justice, warning that without meaningful action, the company would continue to pose a grave risk to public health and safety.
“I’ve been fighting for six years, warning that this company would explode,” Johnson told the hearing. His frustrations were particularly aimed at the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Region 4, which oversees the southeastern United States.
Johnson referred to it as “the worst region in the United States” when it came to enforcing compliance with federal environmental standards. He lamented that Rockdale County had been out of federal compliance for over four decades, and despite his efforts to raise alarms, nothing had been done to correct the situation.
During his testimony, Johnson detailed the numerous safety concerns he had raised regarding BioLab’s operations, including the company’s non-compliance with environmental regulations. He also urged residents living near the plant to seek blood tests to check for exposure to hazardous chemicals like sulfuric acid, which were released in the fire. His urgent pleas underscored the potential health risks faced by those living in the affected areas.
After concluding his powerful testimony, Johnson appeared visibly exhausted and out of breath. As he left the hearing room, he collapsed in the hallway, prompting immediate medical attention. State Representative Viola Davis, who is a registered nurse, administered CPR until emergency medical personnel arrived. Johnson was rushed to Grady Memorial Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The sudden nature of Johnson’s death has prompted further investigation by authorities. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that the Georgia Bureau of Investigation would be conducting an autopsy, given the circumstances surrounding his passing and its proximity to the chemical fire hearing. In a statement, the Medical Examiner’s Office noted, “As a representative for the Soil and Water Conservation District, Johnson delivered a powerful testimony during the chemical fire public hearing. He complained of shortness of breath and subsequently collapsed in the hallway outside room 606.”
Johnson’s death has sent shockwaves through the community, particularly among those who worked closely with him on environmental justice issues. Georgia House Democratic Caucus Leader James Beverly expressed deep sorrow over Johnson’s passing. In a statement, Beverly said, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life today as community advocate Kenny Johnson experienced a medical emergency after testifying at a hearing on the BioLab explosion in Rockdale County held by one of our caucuses. Our collective hearts are heavy with sympathy for your loss, and we send these thoughts in remembrance of your loved one.”
State Representative Viola Davis also paid tribute to Johnson, describing him as a tireless advocate for environmental justice who had dedicated years of his life to improving the quality of life for the residents of Rockdale County.
“Kenny’s unwavering commitment to environmental justice and his testimony on the effects of the BioLab chemical fire on the community remain etched in our memories,” Davis said. “His efforts have left a lasting impact on our community, and we must honor his legacy by ensuring that we follow through with the requests he so fervently championed.”
Johnson’s death has added a somber note to an already fraught situation. The chemical fire at BioLab has raised serious concerns about the safety of the company’s operations and the potential long-term health effects on nearby communities. Johnson had been vocal in his warnings about the risks posed by BioLab, and his sudden passing has only heightened calls for a thorough investigation into the company’s practices and the handling of the fire.
As the community mourns the loss of one of its most dedicated advocates, the investigation into both the fire and Johnson’s death continues. His powerful testimony, urging immediate action to prevent further harm, will not soon be forgotten, and his legacy as a champion of environmental justice will undoubtedly influence future efforts to hold polluting companies accountable.
