Breaking: Two die in early morning fire in Gwinnett County

No working smoke detectors reported in the home

Two died in early morning fire in Gwinnett County Sept. 11, 2026. Photo credit: Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA (Sept. 11, 2026) — Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services reports that two adults died in an early morning house fire in Lilburn Friday.

According to a press release from GCFES, firefighters responded at 5:33 a.m. to a reported house fire in the 300 block of Village Green Court SW in Lilburn. The initial 911 caller reported that she had escaped from the home but that two others remained inside. She reported a kitchen fire. Subsequent 911 callers reported flames coming from the roof.

Firefighters arrived at 5:40 a.m. and found heavy fire and smoke showing from a single-family, split-level home. Crews immediately deployed fire hoses, placed ladders at bedroom windows and began searching the home for the two occupants. Search teams located two adult victims in separate upstairs bedrooms and removed them from the house. Both victims were transferred to medical crews standing by outside, where they were pronounced deceased, GCFES reported. No additional injuries were reported.

Four family members resided at the home, but only three were present when the fire occurred.

The surviving occupant reportedly told firefighters that a crackling sound awakened her. She then discovered a fire in the kitchen, escaped the home and called 911. Firefighters determined there were no working smoke alarms inside the residence at the time of the fire.

The fire was brought under control at 6:17 a.m. Georgia Power and Atlanta Gas Light responded to secure utility services. The American Red Cross is assisting the surviving family members.

Fire investigators determined the fire was accidental and originated in the kitchen. GCFES offered the following advice:

“This tragic incident serves as an important reminder of the need for working smoke alarms in every home. Smoke alarms should be installed inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Test smoke alarms monthly and replace them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. When cooking, remain in the kitchen and closely monitor food on the stovetop. If a fire occurs, exit the home immediately, remain outside, and call 911 from a safe location.”