State fire investigators determine it was caused by an electrical malfunction
The State Fire Marshal’s Office has ruled the fire that destroyed Diamond Jewelry and Loan pawn shop in Baldwin was accidental. Spokesman Glenn Allen says, “The cause was an electrical malfunction. The fire started in the roof area of the structure near the business sign and light cans.”
The fire broke out at the store along State Highway 365 Saturday around 5 p.m. Firefighters quickly responded to the scene but their efforts were hampered by strong winds and low water pressure.
READ: Fire Destroys Baldwin Pawn Shop
GA 365 between Wilbanks and Duncan Bridge Roads in Baldwin was closed for more than five hours because water hoses were stretched across the highway. It was nearly midnight before fire crews started clearing the scene.
State fire investigators arrived at the site Sunday along with agents from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF).
The pawn shop sold weapons. Ammunition could be heard exploding inside the burning building on Saturday. ATF agents spent Sunday recovering guns from the rubble.
(PHOTO/Daniel Purcell)
The Aftermath
Diamond Jewelry and Loan
Baldwin, GA – April 10, 2016
Photos by Amanda Craven Moon of Lady Moon Photography
(click to enlarge)
