Main Street section of Highway 78 in Snellville back open after fire destroys home overnight

Snellville, Ga., November 26, 2018) – Firefighters responded at 12:06 a.m. to multiple reports of a building fire in the 2400 Block of E Main Street SW(Highway 78) in the City of Snellville. Callers to 911 reported a building on fire near the Renasant Bank and Krystal.

Fire crews arrived on scene and found a one-story residence on a basement with heavy fire involvement throughout the entire structure and through the roof. Firefighters deployed fire attack hose lines for a defensive operation. A ladder truck operated master streams from above to knock down the blaze. Once the bulk of the fire was knocked down, crews were able to make entry and extinguish hot spots. A search of the home was completed and found no victims. The home sustained extensive fire damage throughout the entire structure and is considered a total loss. E Main Street was shut down by Snellville Police from Scenic Highway to Civic Drive for the duration of the incident. No injuries were reported.

A Fire Investigator responded to the scene to assist with origin and cause determination. The Fire Investigator found the fire originated towards the front of the home near the center. The cause is currently undetermined due to the extensive damage to the home.

The home is under the care of an executor for an estate. A representative for the executor arrived on scene shortly after firefighters and advised no one lives at the home. Family members visit the home frequently for routine upkeep.

Firefighters encourage all citizens to practice home fire safety, especially during the busy holiday season. Be sure install working smoke alarms on every level of the home and in each bedroom. Develop a home escape plan and practice fire drills regularly. Check and maintain home heating appliances such as the furnace, fireplace and space heater. For additional information on home fire safety, please contact the Gwinnett Fire Community Risk Reduction Division at 678-518-4845 or email fireprograms@gwinnettcounty.com.