Opelika, AL (BuzzReport) — Newly unsealed court documents provide fresh details in the investigation into two daycare fires that damaged facilities in Opelika earlier this year, alleging an intentional arson-for-hire scheme tied to a local business owner and state legislative candidate.
According to investigators, daycare owner and Alabama House candidate Terrence Johnson is accused of paying $6,000 to have two buildings intentionally set ablaze in January. The fires occurred just six days apart and targeted By His Grace Daycare and Learning Center on South 6th Street and Children’s Palace Learning Center along Columbus Parkway.
Police allege that surveillance video and cell phone data link Johnson to two men accused of carrying out the arsons: Michael Green Jr. and Dante Brundidge. Investigators say digital evidence places the suspects in proximity to the locations around the times of the fires and shows communication consistent with coordination before and after the incidents.
Johnson, who is running for Alabama House District 82—covering Macon County and parts of Lee County—has publicly stated that he intends to continue his campaign despite the charges. Court records show he has been released from custody on a $20,000 bond.
Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the alleged arsons, and the investigation remains active. No injuries were reported in either fire, but both facilities sustained damage, disrupting childcare services for families in the area.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.