Firefighters Contain Arson Blaze at Snellville Tire Shop; Two Men Charged

SNELLVILLE, Ga. – Two adult men have been charged after fire investigators determined a blaze at a Snellville tire business was intentionally set, authorities said Tuesday.

Gwinnett County Firefighters were called to Mavis Tires & Brakes at 3887 Centerville Rosebud Road SW at 2:27 p.m. on Dec. 30 after a 911 caller reported smoke and flames coming from the rear of the business. Crews arrived six minutes later and found an active fire in a single-story detached garage behind the main store, with flames venting through the roof and part of the structure already collapsed.

Firefighters deployed a hose line and used an aerial master stream from a ladder truck to knock down the fire. Centerville Rosebud Road was temporarily closed in front of the business to allow crews to connect to a hydrant across the street.

Officials confirmed all occupants were safely out of the building. Safety teams were established due to multiple hazards, including a downed power line and the garage’s enclosed layout, which limited escape routes.

The fire was brought under control at approximately 2:45 p.m. One person was treated for smoke inhalation and released at the scene. No other injuries were reported.

Georgia Power and Atlanta Gas Light responded to secure utilities, including the downed power line, and a hazardous materials team assessed potential environmental concerns.

Fire investigators later ruled the fire incendiary. Two adult male suspects have since been charged in connection with the incident. Authorities said the investigation remains active.

Multiple units responded to the scene, including three engine companies, two ladder trucks, a rescue unit, a medical unit, command vehicles, a hazardous materials unit, air and lighting support, fire investigators, and a public information officer.