A Democrat candidate for House District 82 was arrested on Wednesday in an arson investigation of two separate fires at two daycare facilities in Opelika in January.
Opelika Police arrested Terrence Kareem Johnson, of Tuskegee, on two counts of second-degree arson after an investigation into two separate fires that occurred at childcare facilities in January.
The Opelika Police also arrested Michael Leon Green, 26, and Dante Kharari Brundidge, 28, both from Tuskegee, on arson charges last week.
According to police, at approximately 3:23 a.m., the Opelika Fire Department (OFD) responded to a structure fire at By His Grace Daycare & Learning Center, located at 311 South 6th Street on 3:23 a.m. on January 13. Days later on January 19 at 11:30 p.m., OFD responded to a second structure fire at the Children Palace Learning Center, located at 116 Columbus Parkway.
Firefighters successfully extinguished both fires, and no injuries were reported in either incident. During the initial investigations, authorities discovered glass mason jars filled with an accelerant at both locations.
According to a list of candidates who recently qualified with the Alabama Democrat Party, Johnson is one of two candidates challenging incumbent State Rep. Peblin Warren (D-Tuskegee) in the upcoming May 19 Democrat primary for House District 82.
Johnson has said the three pillars of his campaign to be state representative are empowering small businesses, investing in youth and strengthening community infrastructure.
"My campaign is built on three pillars that I believe are essential for our collective success: Empowering Small Businesses: As an owner of local businesses, I know that small businesses are the heartbeat of our economy," Johnson said in a recent Facebook post. "I will fight for policies that reduce red tape, provide access to capital, and encourage local entrepreneurship. Investing in Our Youth: Our children, deserve an education that prepares them for the world of tomorrow. I am committed to securing better funding for our schools and expanding vocational training opportunities. Strengthening Community Infrastructure: From reliable healthcare to safer roads and better public services, I will advocate for the resources District 82 needs to thrive, ensuring no corner of our district is left behind."
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
