Lightning Hits Ga. Home, Gas Leaks

Feb. 23, 2010
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. --   A gas leak and fire sparked by lightning prompted the evacuation of part of a north Fulton County neighborhood early Monday morning, according to firefighters. Lightning struck a tree near a home on Hillgate Crossing, according to Chief Chad McGiboney of the Johns Creek Fire Department.

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. --

A gas leak and fire sparked by lightning prompted the evacuation of part of a north Fulton County neighborhood early Monday morning, according to firefighters.

Lightning struck a tree near a home on Hillgate Crossing, according to Chief Chad McGiboney of the Johns Creek Fire Department. The home caught fire.

The lightning blast also ruptured a gas line, so firefighters evacuated several homes in the neighborhood until the gas line could be shut down.

Channel 2 Action News reporter Mike Petchenik rushed to the scene.

"I spoke to the fire chief and he said they've evacuated at least eight homes," Petchenik reported at 6:30 a.m.

Atlanta Gas Light crews shut off the gas line shortly after 8 a.m. and residents were allowed to return to their homes.

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