JACKSON COUNTY, Ga. — Authorities are investigating a fatal incident involving a house fire and an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound at a home in the Traditions of Braselton neighborhood, according to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Kevin McCook said deputies were en route Saturday to serve a Temporary Protection Order (TPO) at a residence inside the neighborhood when they were dispatched to a reported fire at the same location.

When deputies arrived, they found a man lying inside the garage. Authorities later determined the man died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His identity has not been released. Sheriff McCook noted the individual was aware the TPO was to be served that day.

Due to the man’s military background and the circumstances surrounding the incident, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Bomb Disposal Unit was called in to assist with clearing the property for any potential explosives.

Officials said deputies arrived within seconds of the initial fire call, as they were already headed to the residence, but the home was already heavily involved in flames upon their arrival.

As a precaution, portions of the Traditions of Braselton neighborhood were evacuated during the response. Roads including Traditions Way, Muscadine Way, and Rice Creek Court were temporarily closed while crews worked the scene and conducted a search of the property. Authorities have since reopened those roadways and stated there is no ongoing threat to the public.

The investigation remains active. Officials are asking the public to avoid the area while work continues and to keep those affected by the incident in their thoughts.