Small business owners at the Herald Holiday Market in Herald Square are grappling with the aftermath of a devastating fire that tore through several vendor booths early Monday morning. Flames broke out around 4:15 a.m., catching firefighters by surprise. It took over an hour for the FDNY to bring the fire under control, leaving behind significant damage.
One firefighter was seriously injured while battling the blaze, a stark reminder of the risks emergency responders face daily. For the small business owners, the impact is deeply personal. Richelle Saberon, who runs Patok Filipina Kitchen, expressed her devastation, “It’s very heartbreaking.
We’ve invested so much money here, just like everyone else, and now everything’s gone. We were looking forward to making the most out of the holiday season.”
The Herald Holiday Market had just opened on December 6, offering a variety of handcrafted gifts, artisanal products, and festive treats across two city blocks. For small business owners like Saberon and Jeremy Sanz of Grey’s Donuts, the market represents an opportunity to gain brand exposure.
“We were hoping to open up on this rainy day and serve our fresh mini donuts and hot chocolates,” said Sanz. “But sometimes, wrenches get thrown in, and we’ll all make it through. Seeing the vendors who suffered the most damage, we’ll do what we can to help them rebuild.”
The fire spread quickly through the northern section of the market, between 35th and 36th Streets on Broadway. Fortunately, a block south, the market was spared and was up and running again by Monday afternoon. “We’re just thankful that it happened overnight and not during the day,” Sanz added. “There could have been more serious injuries.”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. As the holiday season rolls on, the community and fellow vendors are rallying to support those affected, with fundraisers and donations already underway. The market, which is slated to remain open through January 3, serves as a beacon of resilience and community spirit in the face of adversity.
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Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.