The environmental supervisor for Rockdale County’s Soil and Water Conservation District, Kenny Johnson, died after testifying on the recent Georgia biolab fire.
Johnson collapsed near the Georgia State Capitol.
During his testimony, Johnson said this was the second time he had requested a criminal investigation into the biolab. His first call for an investigation occurred three weeks before the fire, The Daily Mail reported.
He explained that he was concerned about the sulfuric acid the company keeps on the property.
“PA Region 4 is the worst region in the United States, look it up,” Johnson said. “Rockdale County been out of federal compliance for four decades.”
“I’ve been fighting for six years,” he explained. “I’ve been saying that company is going to explode. No one listened. We got to move this company out of this community.”
After giving his testimony, Johnson complained of shortness of breath and later collapsed.
State Representative Viola Davis (D), a nurse, administered CPR to Johnson. He was pronounced dead after he was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation will conduct an autopsy due to the sudden nature of Johnson’s death.
Georgia House Democratic Caucus Leader James Beverly said in a statement, “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.”
“On behalf of the Georgia House Democratic Caucus, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. Our collective hearts are heavy with sympathy for your loss, and we send these thoughts in remembrance of your loved one. Please know that our thoughts, prayers, and actions are with you during this difficult time. May cherished memories of Kenny and the work he did bring you comfort.”