Freon leak at Gwinnett Costco causes brief evacuation

Customers were evacuated from a Duluth Costco when a Freon leak was detected Tuesday, Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services said.

Emergency crews were dipatched at 1:03 p.m., as customers were being evacuated from the store near the Gwinnett Place Mall. Firefighters saw a “light haze” near the store’s refrigeration section when they went inside.

READ | OSHA cites Gwinnett company for 'amputation hazard,' other violations

The haze was determined to be caused by a leak of Freon, a chemical used refrigeration and air conditioning. Inhaling the chemical can cause respiratory issues and can lead to more serious medical problems if it is inhaled in a high concentration.

The leak was secured in the store by 1:23 p.m., and a hazardous materials team confirmed that the building was safe once again. The store re-opened around 3 p.m.

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Police chiefs from across Gwinnett County met behind closed doors with prosecutors Friday, trying to figure out how they might handle minor marijuana possession arrests going forward.

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