Richmond bakery owner and neighbors react to fire that closes store

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Community members joined the owner of Sub Rosa in expressing sorrow after the bakery was damaged in a fire over the weekend. According to an Instagram post by the bakery, Sub Rosa, located at 620 N. 25th St., will be closed until further notice after a fire burned through the building on the morning of Sunday, Nov. 24. 8News spoke with owner Evrim Dogu, who said there were a few employees at work when the fire started early Sunday morning. He told 8News the flames likely started near the chimney and attic area. This is the second time his business has caught fire. Dogu said a fire started outside the store and made its way into the building 12 years ago. (Photo courtesy: William Berksteiner, 8News)(Photo courtesy: William Berksteiner, 8News)(Photo courtesy: William Berksteiner, 8News)(Photo courtesy: William Berksteiner, 8News)(Photo courtesy: William Berksteiner, 8News)(Photo courtesy: William Berksteiner, 8News)(Photo courtesy: William Berksteiner, 8News) Neighbor Eddie Fendley said it’s devastating that Dogu’s bakery will be closed and added it’s a staple in the Church Hill community.   “It's more than bread,” Fendley said. “It's nourishment for the whole community. It's a place where people come together. It's a place where people are welcome and every one of you and their family are just a huge part of the neighborhood.” Dogu said he appreciates the outpouring of love from neighbors and other local businesses. He said he will make an announcement in the future on how others in the community can help with fundraising efforts. 8News reached out to Richmond Fire Department for more information but has not heard back.