Gwinnett Daily Post

House fire caused by storms

BUFORD - Firefighters believe an afternoon thunderstorm caused a fire at a Buford home Sunday afternoon.

Firefighters found a fire burning in the attic and flames coming from the roof of the residence as they arrived at the home on Sugar Meadow Drive.

The fire damage was contained to the attic space with only smoke and water damage to the second floor, Gwinnett County Fire Department spokesman Lt. Thomas Rutledge said in a press release. A family of eight escaped unharmed, and the American Red Cross was contacted to assist the displaced family. Neighbors told firefighters this was the second time the house has been hit by lightning.

Gas leak leads to evacuations

SNELLVILLE - A construction crew digging near West Main Street struck a gas line about 12:46 p.m. Monday.

Firefighters evacuated approximately 80 people from several nearby businesses due to the leak, a Fire Department press release said. An emergency crew from Atlanta Gas Light respond to the scene to control and stop the leak about 1:35 p.m., allowing the roadway to be reopened and people to return to their businesses. Firefighters said no injuries were reported.

Pair charged with racing on highway

NORCROSS - Two men were arrested earlier in the month and charged with racing on the highway.

According to a police report, Darlin Mejia-Lopez, 22, and Samuel Mejia, 19, were driving at high speeds and swerving in and out of traffic along Singleton Road on Aug. 17. When stopped, Mejia-Lopez admitted to driving at speeds of 70 mph. Both were arrested and their vehicles were impounded.

Manager accused of stealing money

LAWRENCEVILLE - The manager of a Lawrenceville Eckerds drug store is suspected of stealing money from the store.

The manager was seen on store surveillance video entering the store after hours and going through money in a safe and pocketing some of the cash, according to a police report.

The manager of the store at 645 Russell Road was suspended indefinitely from work pending further investigation, the report said.