An unexpected incident occurred this morning when a vehicle crashed into the beloved neighborhood bar, Dovre Club, located at the intersection of Valencia and 26th streets in San Francisco. This collision has temporarily closed the establishment and altered the appearance of the historic intersection, as the iconic sign that adorned the building for decades was removed for safety reasons. The event drew immediate attention from local authorities and community members, who swiftly responded to support the bar and its management.

The incident unfolded early on a busy morning, catching many by surprise. Bar manager Dee Deem received an urgent call around 9:25 AM from a regular patron informing her about the accident. Upon arrival, she found minor structural damage to the front doors and an exterior supporting beam. However, the integrity of the bar itself remained intact. Emergency services were promptly notified, and they arrived shortly after to assess the situation.

The collision involved two vehicles, resulting in significant damage to the Dovre Club building. Two adults sustained non-life-threatening injuries. According to San Francisco Fire Department captain Jonathan Baxter, one of the drivers fled the scene but was later apprehended near Folsom and 26th streets. The suspect vehicle was left behind, and paramedics treated the injured parties on-site before transporting the suspect to a hospital for evaluation.

In light of the incident, firefighters took down the iconic Dovre Club sign to prevent it from falling and causing further harm. "The firefighters deemed it safer to remove the sign," said Deem. "It's currently being stored inside the bar for safekeeping."

The Department of Building Inspection is set to evaluate the structure today. Until then, the bar will remain closed until a structural engineer, licensed plumber, and electrician confirm that the premises are safe for reopening. Deem expressed hope that they could resume operations as soon as possible. Established in 1966, Dovre Club moved to its current location in 1998 and has since become an integral part of the neighborhood. Over the years, it has served as a cherished third space for locals, offering a welcoming environment with free pool, affordable drinks, and a strong sense of community.

The community's swift response to the incident has been heartwarming. Many residents reached out to offer support, underscoring the deep connection between Dovre Club and its patrons. "It means so much to see how much people love this place," Deem remarked. "We're incredibly grateful for everyone's support during this challenging time."

Despite the setback, the resilience of the Dovre Club and its community remains evident. As the bar awaits clearance to reopen, the collective spirit of the neighborhood stands strong, ready to welcome back a beloved institution once it's safe to do so.