Kenny Johnson, a respected Georgia environmental official and tireless advocate for environmental justice, tragically passed away on Tuesday after collapsing during a public meeting near the state Capitol. The 62-year-old was attending the meeting to discuss the aftermath of the devastating BioLab chemical fire, which released toxic chlorine gas and smoke over Conyers just days prior.

Johnson, who served as the Rockdale County Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor, had passionately testified moments earlier about the fire’s environmental impact. After delivering his testimony, he suddenly experienced shortness of breath and collapsed in the hallway. State Representative Viola Davis, who is also a trained nurse, immediately performed CPR until paramedics arrived. Johnson was rushed to Grady Memorial Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. An official cause of death is pending an autopsy by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

The BioLab fire, which broke out on September 29 due to a malfunctioning sprinkler interacting with hazardous chemicals, forced the evacuation of 17,000 residents and shelter-in-place orders for 90,000 others. The toxic plume from the blaze, visible from 30 miles away, remains a source of concern as air quality warnings persist for residents living near the plant.

Johnson had been an outspoken critic of BioLab, referring to the incident as an “environmental disaster” and drawing attention to the plant’s long history of safety issues, including federal scrutiny and lawsuits over previous health and property damage claims. His sudden death has shaken the community, leaving many grieving the loss of a man who dedicated his life to protecting the environment and public health.

The meeting at which Johnson collapsed was intended to address ongoing air quality issues and the potential long-term effects of the toxic release. As of Wednesday, those living within a two-mile radius of the plant are still under shelter-in-place orders. The BioLab incident has reignited conversations around environmental safety standards and the need for stronger regulations in communities near industrial facilities.

Johnson’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief from colleagues, activists, and community members who remember him as a fearless advocate for justice. “Kenny fought for the health and safety of our communities until his very last breath,” said one fellow activist. His legacy as a champion for environmental justice will continue to inspire those working toward a safer and more sustainable future.

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