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Lightning strike to blame for Sonny's BBQ blaze, Gwinnett Fire says

Sonny's BBQ in Gwinnett County catches fire, officials say
Credit: KSDK

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — Gwinnett County firefighters rushed to a blaze at a popular restaurant in Lawrenceville on Tuesday night, and officials say a lightning strike is to blame.

Fire crews responded to Sonny's BBQ on Duluth Highway NW just after 8 p.m. after a caller said she was evacuating the restaurant and could see smoke and flames billowing out. 

When firefighters arrived, they saw flames coming through the roof. After confirming that everyone had been safely evacuated, they used multiple fire hoses to douse the flames. The fire was extinguished by 8:31 p.m., officials said. 

The manager on duty told Gwinnett Fire that a drive-thru customer told them smoke was coming from the outside wall of the restaurant. Shortly after, staff noticed smoke and flames inside the restaurant near the ceiling and immediately called 911. 

No one was injured in the fire. 

Fire officials deemed the fire to be accidental in nature. 

This is a developing story. Check back often for new information.

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