Bullets Fly as Georgia House Burns

Dec. 29, 2008

DECATUR, Ga. --

A house fire sent bullets flying around a DeKalb County home early Monday morning, slowing down firefighters battling the fire.

The fire broke out at the home of Renna O'Neal at 2142 Whites Mill Road about 1 a.m., according to Capt. Eric Jackson of the DeKalb fire department.

When firefighters arrived they could hear ammunition inside the home going off.

O'Neal said she had several loaded guns and ammunition in her home.

When the bullets started flying the firefighters retreated.

"Bullets and ammunition have no target and there is alway the possibility of danger," explained Jackson.

Burglar bars on the house also slowed down firefighters. They had to cut the bars away from windows to get into the house.

O'Neal was visiting relatives when the fire broke out and returned to see her home burning.

"I turned onto the street and said 'Oh God, my house is on fire,'" said O'Neal.

The home was a complete loss.

"I'm just thankful we weren't at home," said O'Neal.

Copyright 2008 by wsbtv.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Firehouse, create an account today!