ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga. — The body of a Rockdale County soil and water supervisor who collapsed and died shortly after speaking at a public meeting is being returned to his family Tuesday after the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) announced it would not be conducting an autopsy.
Kenny Johnson, 62, passed away on October 8 after testifying at a meeting concerning the chemical plume caused by the BioLab fire in Rockdale County. He was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, where he later was pronounced dead. Given the circumstances, the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office said the GBI would handle the case.
Although earlier reports suggested an autopsy would be conducted, the GBI determined it was unnecessary.
"After discussions with the family, a GBI medical examiner conducted a case consultation and it was determined that the GBI did not need to perform an autopsy," the GBI said in part.
RELATED: Wife of Rockdale official who died after meeting on BioLab plume makes public plea for patience
Johnson’s wife, Dr. Shamita Johnson, recently requested patience and privacy as the family processes the loss. In a video message, she addressed the public, expressing the profound grief they were experiencing and indicating that more information would be shared when appropriate.
Johnson has served as the Georgia State Representative of Rockdale Soil and Water Conservation since 2019. His death followed his testimony at a public meeting in Atlanta regarding the lingering effects of the BioLab chemical plume, which continues to impact the community after a fire on September 29.
Though extinguished, the BioLab fire caused a chemical reaction that continues to release substances into the air. Residents have raised concerns about the plume's health risks and environmental effects, prompting ongoing discussions between local officials, business owners, and state lawmakers.
A community assistance center opened Tuesday to address concerns.