Young Harmony, Johnathan & Ginger Bond, Chattanooga, TN
Johnathan Bond, lead vocalist of the popular award-winning Southern Gospel group, Young Harmony, says the FBI and Nashville local authorities are still investigating the May 21 fire-bombing of the group’s tour bus as a possible "hate crime" against gospel music. Bond says, "I personally think it may have possibly been just a crime of convenience, but who knows.”
Police are not sure why someone would target Young Harmony. "I don't think that it was
anything personal. We are just thankful that GOD protected us and others from being hurt or possibly killed in the explosion. That in itself is a miracle to be thankful for." says Bond.
Group members called 911 when they noticed the bus filling with smoke. Investigators said a plastic jug full of an explosive liquid was found in a luggage compartment under the bus. A police bomb squad unit determined that a flammable agent was the cause of the fire, and the explosive device was a homemade firebomb. No one was injured in the incident.
Rick Hendrix confirmed that Young Harmony had just left Faith Temple in Nashville when the firebomb was placed in the bus. The bus was parked near Printers Alley at Church Street and Third Avenue. The vehicle sustained about $32,000 in damages but the group has not allowed the incident to discontinue their mission.
The multi-Dove nominated and Horizon Award winning group says this is not the first time they have experienced a challenge in spreading their message; however their music ministry must go on and so it has. Members of El Bethel Baptist Church in Shelbyville, TN heard this testimony from the group on Sunday night. Fans and members of the church gathered around after the performance to show their support and love for this group that has been in the forefront of the Southern Gospel music industry since the 90's.
Hendrix stated, “Their message is great and much needed so Young Harmony will continue sharing the Good News.”
Photo:
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