A popular Adelaide cafe owned by a New Zealand native was destroyed in a suspected arson attack, leaving the local community shocked and saddened.
Dan Horrell, originally from Port Motueka, saw his long-standing business, Bray St Coffee Roasters, go up in flames just hours after announcing plans to celebrate the cafe’s eight-year anniversary. The blaze, which authorities believe was deliberately set, has devastated the owner, but he remains determined to rebuild.
Horrell expressed disbelief over the attack, telling local media, “I’ve done nothing wrong, and suddenly it’s up in flames.” He vowed to reopen the business and continue serving coffee to his loyal customers, even if it means starting by serving them on the footpath.
Fire Engulfs Beloved Local Cafe
The fire broke out late Thursday night at the Plympton Park location. Firefighters were called to the scene at 10:20 p.m., responding to reports of heavy smoke and flames. When emergency crews and police arrived, the back of the cafe was already engulfed in flames.
Speaking to The Advertiser, Horrell shared his shock at the apparent arson: “It’s just a massive shock… someone’s come through the back door and decided to pour petrol through my little shop.” He received the devastating news via a phone call, being told that his beloved cafe was on fire and that everything had been lost.
The incident is now under investigation by local police as they look into what caused the blaze and who might be responsible for this malicious attack.
Community Rallies Around Horrell
Before the fire, Horrell had planned a special celebration for Bray St Coffee Roasters’ anniversary, offering free food and drinks to thank the community for eight years of support. Following the blaze, the outpouring of love and encouragement from customers and locals has been overwhelming.
Taking to social media, Horrell expressed his gratitude to the community, promising, “This won’t stop us from giving you all our coffee and our love.”
Messages of support have been flooding in from devastated patrons. One commenter said, “I was going to introduce my granddaughter to your coffee shop on Saturday to join in on your 8-year celebration. Stay strong Dan, and hope they catch the low life that did this.”
Another supporter wrote, “I hope they find who did this and make them pay for messing with our community and its businesses. Hope to see you back on your feet soon, Dan. You’re a legend and your coffee is second to none!”
The Road Ahead
Despite the immense loss, Horrell remains optimistic about the future, determined that his coffee shop of eight years will “bounce back.” He acknowledges that it has been a difficult time for small businesses, especially post-COVID, but this incident marks the toughest challenge he has faced yet.
Police continue to investigate the fire as the community hopes for answers and justice. Meanwhile, Horrell is focused on rebuilding and ensuring that Bray St Coffee Roasters will once again serve its loyal customers in the near future.