Kenny Johnson, a 62-year-old environmental supervisor for Rockdale County’s Soil and Water Conservation District, tragically died on Tuesday after collapsing shortly following his testimony at a public hearing. The hearing, held near the Georgia State Capitol, focused on the environmental and health impacts of a recent chemical fire at the BioLab plant in Conyers, Georgia.
Johnson had long been a vocal advocate for environmental justice, and his appearance at the hearing was marked by impassioned testimony about the dangers posed by BioLab. The plant, located about 30 miles east of Atlanta, caught fire on September 29, releasing a toxic plume of smoke and hazardous chemicals into the air, raising serious public health concerns for nearby communities.
The fire was reportedly caused by a sprinkler malfunction that led to a dangerous chemical reaction. Heavy smoke, laden with toxic substances, spread throughout the area, putting residents at risk of exposure to harmful chemicals. The BioLab facility has a history of safety violations, and Johnson had been working for years to raise awareness about the ongoing risks posed by the plant’s operations.
During his testimony, Johnson detailed his efforts to warn local and federal authorities about the plant’s potential for disaster. He emphasized that Rockdale County had been out of federal compliance for decades, accusing local and national agencies of failing to act. His criticisms were especially sharp toward the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Region 4, which oversees the southeastern United States, calling it “the worst region in the United States” when it comes to enforcing environmental regulations.
Johnson’s testimony was not his first attempt to bring attention to BioLab’s operations. He had previously called for a Department of Justice investigation into the company, citing repeated safety violations and the potential for a catastrophe. At the hearing, he once again urged officials to open a criminal inquiry into BioLab’s practices and called for the plant to be relocated. He also implored residents living near the plant to get their blood tested for exposure to hazardous chemicals, including sulfuric acid, which had been released during the fire.
In his testimony, Johnson warned that the fire was the result of years of neglect and failure to enforce federal standards. “I’ve been fighting for six years, warning that this company would explode,” Johnson said. His words were a dire reminder of the consequences of inaction, and they were met with concern from the audience.
However, shortly after delivering his powerful remarks, Johnson collapsed outside the hearing room. He appeared visibly fatigued and short of breath while speaking, prompting concern from those in attendance. State Representative Viola Davis, a registered nurse, was among the first to come to his aid, performing CPR until paramedics arrived. Johnson was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, where he was later pronounced dead.
The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed Johnson’s death, and due to its sudden nature and proximity to the hearing on the chemical fire, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation will conduct an autopsy. Although the exact cause of death is yet to be determined, the Medical Examiner’s Office stated that it was related to the medical emergency Johnson suffered immediately following his testimony.
In response to Johnson’s death, political leaders and environmental advocates expressed their condolences and paid tribute to his years of service and dedication to environmental causes. Georgia House Democratic Caucus Leader James Beverly issued a heartfelt statement, expressing the deep sorrow felt by many at Johnson’s sudden passing. “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Kenny Johnson, a tireless advocate for his community. His passion and commitment to environmental justice will not be forgotten,” Beverly said.
State Representative Viola Davis also praised Johnson’s unwavering dedication to improving environmental standards in Rockdale County. “Kenny spent years advocating for environmental justice and ensuring that the voices of those affected by pollution were heard. His testimony today about the BioLab fire was a powerful reminder of the work that still needs to be done, and we must honor his legacy by continuing to fight for the causes he championed,” Davis said.
The BioLab fire has reignited debates about the enforcement of environmental regulations and the safety of chemical plants across the country. Residents living near the Conyers facility are concerned about the potential long-term effects of exposure to toxic chemicals released during the fire. Johnson’s death adds a tragic note to an already volatile situation, but his advocacy may continue to inspire efforts to hold BioLab accountable and push for stronger regulatory oversight.
As the investigation into both the fire and Johnson’s death continues, local and national attention is expected to remain focused on Rockdale County and the fallout from the BioLab disaster. Johnson’s testimony and untimely passing underscore the urgent need for action to protect communities from the dangers of industrial pollution and inadequate enforcement of environmental laws.