Fire tore through a Duluth auto repair shop Monday afternoon, but everyone inside made it out safely.
What Happened: Just before 2 p.m., Stefan International Car Service on Buford Highway reported a fire. Crews arrived within minutes to find heavy smoke and flames pouring from the single-story building.
- Workers were already evacuating when firefighters pulled up.
- After confirming no one was trapped, crews switched to a defensive attack, dousing the flames from outside for safety.
- The blaze was under control within an hour, though crews stayed behind to knock down hot spots.
Between the Lines: Investigators say the fire started accidentally while a vehicle was being repaired.
- The shop owner told crews the blaze broke out as they worked on a car.
- No injuries were reported, though the building sustained heavy damage.
The Response: The fire drew a major response: five engines, two ladder trucks, a rescue unit, a hazmat team, a water tender, medics, command staff, and investigators. Georgia Power also cut service to the shop.
The Sources: Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services.
