An environmental official in Georgia died this week shortly after testifying at the state’s Capitol building.
Kenny Johnson, the supervisor for the Rockdale County Soil and Water Conservation District, testified Tuesday alongside local business owners and leaders expressing frustration over last month’s fire at the BioLab plant in Conyers, located 25 miles east of Atlanta. In the immediate aftermath, hazardous plumes from the blaze spread into neighboring counties.
After his testimony on Tuesday, Johnson collapsed at the Georgia state Capitol while speaking about a chemical plant fire.
The Georgia House Democratic Caucus said that the 62-year-old Johnson “complained of shortness of breath and subsequently collapsed in the hallway” after meeting with officials. Georgia State Representative Viola Davis, a nurse, performed CPR until medical personnel arrived and transported him to Grady Memorial Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
“Kenny dedicated years as the Soil and Water Conservation District representative and as an environmental justice advocate,” Davis said in a statement. “His unwavering commitment to environmental justice and his testimony on the effects of the Biolab chemical fire on the community remain etched in our memories.”
The Georgia State Capitol on August 15, 2023, in Atlanta, Georgia. On Wednesday, an environmental official died after collapsing at the Georgia state Capitol.
Joe Raedle/Getty Images
“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. State Rep. Viola Davis, a nurse by profession, administered CPR while medical professionals were summoned,” the Georgia House Democratic Caucus said in their statement, obtained by Fox 5 Atlanta.
In an emailed statement to Fox 5 Atlanta, the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the death of Johnson.
Georgia House Democratic Caucus Leader James Beverly said in a statement to Fox 5 Atlanta: “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.”
Beverly added in the statement, “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.”
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is expected to conduct a full investigation into Johnson’s death, Fox 5 Atlanta reported.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.