Belair resident Kendra Lavia is once again picking up the pieces after losing her business to fire and theft, seven years after a similar tragedy forced her from her home in Diamond.
Lavia told Asberth News Network that around 2:00 a.m. on Thursday, she received a phone call informing her that her shop was on fire. Upon arrival, she found several individuals attempting to bring the blaze under control. Despite their efforts, much of her inventory had already been destroyed.
She reported that upon further inspection, it was discovered that the building’s door had been broken off, indicating a possible break-in prior to the fire. Among the losses were newly restocked drinks, iceboxes, and power tools being stored for workers.
A resident in the area reportedly saw a vehicle leaving the vicinity around the time of the incident, raising further concerns about possible criminal involvement.
“This brings back so many memories,” an emotional Lavia said. “Seven years ago on April 3rd, I lost everything, and now on April 25th, the same thing has happened.”
Lavia estimates her losses at over $10,000 in goods and equipment.
A mother of five and grandmother of three, Lavia noted that the small business was the main source of income for her family. She described the loss as a devastating blow to their livelihood.