FLOWERY BRANCH - Rush hour traffic on I-985 was slowed by a grass fire Wednesay afternoon with one lane closed while firefighters fought the blaze.<br />
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A spokesman for the Gwinnett County Fire Department said it occured about 4:00.<br />
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"Firefighters responded to a report from passing motorists of a grass fire along I-85 southbound, just north of Friendship Road," Capt. Tommy Rutledge said. "Callers reported a sizable grass fire on the right-shoulder of the road."<br />
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Rutledge said the fire was quickly extinguished "but scorched a medium-sized area of grass before being completely put out. The exact cause of the fire is unknown."<br />
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One lane of the Interstate was closed until about 5:30 to make room for fire trucks and other equipment. <br />
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"All other lanes remained open for travel, but were somewhat slowed due to the smoke," Rutledge added. "(The) Georgia State Patrol...assisted with traffic control and kept cars moving safely." <br />
