(Norcross, Ga., Jan.13, 2022) – An early morning blaze Thursday damaged four apartment units on Chase Lane in Norcross. Firefighters brought the flames under control around 2:12 a.m. Approximately 30 people were evacuated from the two-story, eight-unit apartment building when the first fire trucks arrived.

Crews found smoke and flames showing from two second-floor apartment units on the corner of the building. Firefighters immediately deployed fire attack and water supply hose lines and gained quick access inside to combat the blaze and conduct a primary search. There were no injuries reported. 

Per Fire Investigators, the blaze appears accidental and originated from the HVAC utility closet in a second-floor apartment. The exact cause of the fire is undetermined. Occupants were home in the unit where the fire started and were alerted by the smell of smoke. They exited the apartment and began banging on doors to alert neighbors. Two apartment units sustained heavy fire damage and two additional units had extensive smoke, heat, and water damage. The American Red Cross and management for the complex were requested to assist the displaced occupants.

This fire is a reminder of the importance of following proper fire safety practices. Install working smoke alarms on every level and develop a home fire escape plan. Practice fire drills to make sure everyone knows what to do. Look for and eliminate hazards that could cause a fire to start or grow in intensity.

For more information on home fire safety, please contact the Gwinnett Fire Community Risk Reduction Division at 678.518.4845 or email fireprograms@gwinnettcounty.com.

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