In a shocking turn of events, two beloved businesses in the quaint town of Chepachet, Rhode Island, were forced to close their doors indefinitely following a devastating accident that caused significant damage to a local building. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of a Saturday morning, has left the community reeling, but also showcasing the resilience and support that small towns are known for.

Chepachet Businesses Reeling, but Community Rallies to Support

Crash Causes Catastrophic Damage, Businesses Forced to Close

The incident occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 2nd, when a vehicle crashed through the front of a building housing two popular establishments: Who Cut the Cheesecake and Aegean Pizza. The impact was so severe that the building was deemed unsafe, forcing both businesses to close their doors until further notice.According to the Glocester Police Department, the driver, a Glocester resident, was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was transported to Rhode Island Hospital with serious injuries. Thankfully, no other injuries were reported.The crash caused significant structural damage to the building, prompting the Glocester Building Official to order part of the plaza to remain closed pending a structural assessment. Only one business, Heirloom Emporium, was cleared to reopen.

Community Rallies to Support Affected Businesses

The news of the closures was met with an outpouring of support from the local community. The Glocester Business Association, of which the affected businesses are members, quickly published a message of encouragement, reminding residents that "the weekends are so crucial for small businesses" and urging them to "shop and support small" as the holiday season approaches.The impact of the closures is not to be underestimated. Who Cut the Cheesecake, a beloved local bakery, announced that it would be shipping its signature cheesecakes to a second location in Millbury, Massachusetts, in an effort to continue serving its loyal customers. The bakery is a supplier to more than a dozen other local businesses, including The Beef Barn, Brewology, and Assados, further highlighting the interconnectedness of the community.

Cause of Accident Remains Under Investigation

The cause of the accident remains under investigation, and the Glocester Police Department has not released the identity of the driver. However, the community is rallying together to support the affected businesses and ensure that they can weather this storm and eventually reopen their doors.The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of small businesses and the importance of community support. In the face of adversity, the people of Chepachet have demonstrated the true spirit of a tight-knit community, coming together to uplift and support their local entrepreneurs.As the investigation continues and the businesses work to rebuild, the community of Chepachet stands ready to lend a helping hand, ensuring that the heart of their town continues to beat strong.