Gwinnett County Firefighters Rescue One Adult and Canine At Lawrenceville Home Fire

On August 14, 2024, at 2:35 a.m., Gwinnett County firefighters were dispatched to a house fire on the 3500 block of River Drive SW in Lawrenceville. The 911 caller reported that her house was on fire and that the family of four adults was attempting to escape. After evacuating, the homeowner informed 911 that her brother was still trapped inside the house.

Firefighters arrived at 2:42 a.m. and found a working fire in a single-family dwelling. The homeowner told fire crews that her brother had not escaped. Firefighters deployed multiple hoses to extinguish the flames and conducted a search for the trapped individual. They rescued an adult male and a canine, both of whom were handed over to medical personnel. The search continued to ensure no other occupants were inside before confirming the house was vacant.

The fire scene presented safety challenges, including a partial collapse of the first floor and compromised structural integrity of the back deck. The fire was reported under control by 3:30 a.m. Firefighters ventilated the structure and monitored the air quality post-fire.

Medical crews transported one adult with non-life-threatening injuries to a local hospital. Two additional adults, also with non-life-threatening injuries, were treated and released at the scene. The canine was provided with oxygen using a pet mask and returned to the homeowners for further care. The American Red Cross will assist the four displaced adults. Fire investigators determined the fire was accidentally caused by an electrical issue.

The incident highlights the importance of fire escape drills and having a designated meeting place. Community fire educators are available to help residents develop fire safety practices.