OPELIKA | RICKEY STOKES NEWS
Two daycare fires just six days apart left dozens of east Alabama families scrambling for childcare and led to an investigation that has now resulted in a third arrest.
Investigators say glass mason jars filled with an accelerant were discovered at both fire scenes, indicating the fires were intentionally set.
According to the Opelika Police Department, Terrence Johnson, 51, of Tuskegee, was arrested Tuesday night, February 24, and charged with two counts of second-degree arson. His arrest marks the third in the case involving two Opelika childcare facilities.
Public records and campaign materials show Johnson was actively running for the Alabama House of Representatives, District 82, at the time of his arrest. It remains unclear how the charges will impact his candidacy.
The first fire was reported January 13, 2026, around 3:23 a.m. at By His Grace Daycare and Learning Center on South Sixth Street. The second occurred January 19, just after 11:30 p.m., at Children’s Palace Learning Center on Columbus Parkway. No injuries were reported in either incident.
Police previously arrested Michael Leon Green, 26, and Dante Kharari Brundidge, 28, both of Tuskegee, on arson charges connected to the fires.
The investigation involved assistance from the Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, and the United States Marshals Service.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Opelika Police Detectives at 334-705-5220 or submit tips through the Opelika Police Mobile App.
All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
