Shock as Rockdale Official Dies After Fiery BioLab Hearing
Kenny Johnson Collapses After Urgent Testimony
Kenny A. Johnson, a Rockdale County Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor, tragically died on Tuesday just after giving an impassioned speech at a Georgia Capitol hearing. Johnson was addressing lawmakers about the BioLab chemical fire that erupted on September 29, raising serious safety concerns.
Dramatic Scene at Georgia State Capitol
The hearing in Room 606 of the Coverdell Legislative Office Building drew a packed crowd, including members of the House and Senate Rockdale County Legislative Delegations, the House Minority Caucus, and representatives from DeKalb County. Residents, business owners, and employees all turned out to voice their concerns following the hazardous blaze.
Witnesses say Johnson stepped up, delivered his testimony, then collapsed shortly after leaving the room. State Representative Viola Davis, trained as a nurse, sprang into action, performing CPR while paramedics rushed to the scene. Johnson was rushed to Grady Hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after, confirmed by the Fulton County Medical Examiner.
Johnson’s Fiery Plea for Action
“He was very passionate about the information he was sharing concerning BioLab. It was shocking to learn that he didn’t make it. What a tragedy,” said State Representative Doreen Carter.
Johnson called for the immediate shutdown of BioLab, citing the dangers posed by chemicals like sulfuric acid stored on site. He urged residents to get blood tests and demanded a federal criminal investigation into the company’s operations.
Community in Mourning, Fight for Safety Continues
Johnson’s sudden death sent shockwaves through Rockdale County, leaving the community reeling. His push for accountability and tougher safety measures highlights urgent issues local officials must now confront.
Investigations into both the tragic fire and the circumstances surrounding Johnson’s death are ongoing.
