Lightning Sparks Two House Fires

Gwinnett firefighters responded to two house fires apparently sparked by lightning strikes in Duluth and Dacula within minutes apart Tuesday night. The home in the 1900 block of Point River Drive in Duluth was reported as a total loss.

Firefighters responded at 9:59 p.m. to a report from neighbors of a lightning strike and fire at the Duluth home, Gwinnett Fire Capt. Tommy Rutledge reported. Crews found the two-story wood frame and brick house fully involved in flames on arrival, he said.

Due to the magnitude of the fire and the collapse of the main-level of the residence into the basement, firefighters deployed multiple hose lines and used an aerial ladder device to control the fire, Rutledge said. He declared the structure a total loss.  

According to neighbors, the couple who lives in the home was out of town.  Fire crews initially had not been able to complete a search of the home due to the damage and instability of the structure. Rutledge reported that the fire department later contacted their daughter who confirmed the couple was on vacation. 

Firefighters were awaiting the arrival of a piece of heavy equipment (trackhoe/tractor) to assist with taking down unstable walls and clearing debris.

One engine company remained at the scene overnight Tuesday to check for hotspots. 

Firefighters responded at 10:05 p.m. to an occupant report of a lightning strike and fire in the 2200 block of Floral Ridge Drive NE in Dacula. Crews found flames showing from the attic and roof peak of the two-story wood frame house on arrival, Rutledge reported.

The occupants were already safe outside when the fire department arrived, he said.

An aggressive interior attack brought the fire quickly under control, according to Rutledge. The fire damage was contained to the attic and roof, with some smoke and water damage to the main living areas. Interior crews were also able to cover or move furniture and contents inside to minimize the damage, he said.