Unattended fireplace possible cause of Buford house fire

BUFORD - Seven people - four adults and three children - have been displaced after a fire destroyed their home on South Street in Buford Tuesday morning.<br /> <br /> Gwinnett County Fire Capt. Tommy Rutledge said a neighbor noticed the fire just before 6:15 a.m. and called 911.<br /> <br /> Rutledge said there were initial concerns that the residents might be at home because there were two vehicles in the driveway. He said it turned out everyone was away from the house because they had all gone to the hospital to visit a relative.<br /> <br /> In a press statement, Rutledge said the fire caused heavy damage to the home and contents, making the residence unlivable. The fire also caused cosmetic damage to both vehicles in the driveway. <br /> <br /> Fire investigators said they believe the fire to be accidental, starting near the fireplace. Residents told investigators they left the fireplace burning and they also had a live Christmas tree near the fireplace. Investigators said they are unsure if sparks from the fireplace ignited the fire or if the tree was a contributing factor.