SOUTH FULTON, Ga. — A South Fulton home destroyed by arson that killed four people, including the homeowner last October, was demolished Thursday morning.
South Fulton's code enforcement department supervised the demolition at 9 a.m., according to city leaders.
Twelve people were at the home when the fire broke out on Oct. 19, 2022, along Oswego Trail. Eight people managed to escape the early morning fire. Four people from the same family died, including 7-year-old Hailey Harris.
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Victims in South Fulton fire
A man named Mark Owens, a relative of the residents, owned the home and also died in the fire.
Brian Morris, a leader with the City of South Fulton's Code Enforcement, said this demolition happened faster than most others due to safety concerns with the remaining structure.
"As long as it stays open, you have the risk of children and pets getting trapped in or just an attractive nuisance," Morris said. "We want to eliminate the nuisance from the neighborhood."
Family members originally thought an electrical issue caused the massive fire.
However, in December, the City of South Fulton fire marshal said they have more than one person of interest and are offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest or conviction.
The fire marshal said the people of interest are known to the family.
South Fulton Fire Lt. Eric Jackson said Thursday morning the fire is considered under "active investigation."
Anyone with information is asked to call the Georgia Arson Control Hotline at 800-282-5804. Information will be kept confidential.