A knife-wielding man caused a standoff with authorities after he barricaded himself inside a home ablaze in unincorporated Duluth. As reported by FOX 5 Atlanta, the Gwinnett County police say neighbors alerted them to the scene on Gainesway Trace on Saturday evening before 6 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers encountered the man, identified as 33-year-old Jonathan Lee, who had returned to the burning home after originally coming out with a knife. According to 11Alive, the Gwinnett County Fire Department worked to extinguish the fire while mental health clinicians and officers attempted to engage Lee in negotiations for a peaceful surrender.
The situation intensified as Lee refused to heed commands to drop the weapon and exit the home, as per Gwinnett County Officer Mark Meyers speaking to FOX 5 Atlanta. The emergency response grew to include the SWAT team and a clinician from their Behavioral Health Unit in addition to the fire team and police, while eventually the fire was contained without any hostages involved.
Following several hours of standstill, Lee was detained just after 10 p.m., facing charges including arson in the first degree, obstruction, and criminal damage to property. "As the Gwinnett County Fire Department knocked down the fire, officers and mental health clinicians continued to try and negotiate with Lee to peacefully surrender," as a statement given to 11Alive. The suspect was then taken to a hospital out of an abundance of caution.
Meanwhile, residents in the proximity of the incident were evacuated or given instructions to shelter in place during the operation. While Lee is in custody, the Gwinnett County Police investigation continues. They encourage anyone with information about the incident to contact the GCPD detectives at 770-513-5300 or to submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or online, with possible cash rewards for information leading to an arrest and indictment.
