Charges Possible in Fatal Accident on Buford Highway

Police believe alcohol and speed played a role in a deadly early morning accident Sunday in Buford.

Gwinnett Police said Brandon C. Pellien, 29, of Sugar Hill and Steven Barco, 48, of Buford both died at the scene at Buford Highway and Garnett Street around 2:15 a.m. Sunday. Two minors were taken to Scottish Rite hospital with non life-threatening injuries.

Police said Pellien was the driver and Barco the passenger in a Daewood Lanos that apparently ran through a stop sign and into the intersection, where it was struck on the driver’s side by a Pontiac Grand Am travelling south on Buford Highway. Police also said the Grand Am was travelling faster than the posted 45 mph speed limit.

The driver of the Grand Am, Jessica Paterson of Buford, and an adult male passenger, Kristopher Paterson, complained of injuries. A 9-year-old boy and 5-year-old girl were taken to the hospital.

“Both alcohol and speed appear to be contributing causes with this accident,” police said in a press release. “This investigation continues and charges may be forthcoming.”