Update: Two Killed in Fiery Sugar Hill Crash ID'd

Updated: 11 a.m. July 4

The Gwinnett County Police Accident Investigation Unit has tentatively identified the driver as 30-year-old James P. Gifford of Ellijay and passenger as 21-year-old Thomas Hawkins of Snellville.

Investigators are waiting on confirmation through dental records.

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Gwinnett Police currently are investigating a one-car traffic accident that killed two people Tuesday in unincorporated Sugar Hill. The accident occurred on Sycamore Road, a half-time north of Nelson Brogdon Boulevard.

According to a news release, the driver of a dark gray BMW 740i was heading north on Sycamore Road when the driver lost control. The vehicle crossed over the double yellow line traveling off the west side of the road and struck a tree at the 5300 block of Sycamore Road.

After impact, the vehicle became fully engulfed in fire. The vehicle was occupied by the driver and a passenger, and both were deceased when the fire was extinguished, police said.

Investigators are having a difficult time positively identifying the victims. Police tentatively identified the driver, and are waiting on dental records for confirmation. Investigators are looking for assistance in identifying the passenger.

It is believed that the couple were traveling to Lake Lanier after leaving an Alcoholic Anonymous class. Anyone with information regarding this accident and the identities of the victims are encouraged to call Gwinnett County Police Accident Investigation Unit, 678-442-5626