A fire that began in a neighboring restaurant has destroyed Gracie Barra Vancouver, and now, the academy is seeking help as they find a way to rebuild.
According to the CBC, the fire began at Frenchie’s poutine restaurant at about 10 a.m. local time on Thursday, and firefighters hoped to contain it before it spread to other surrounding businesses and homes.
By about 1 pm, the fire had spread to three other businesses, including Gracie Barra Vancouver. The restaurant and the living space above it were destroyed, and one person was arrested on suspicion of arson and released later that day. There is still an ongoing investigation taking place.
Though the BJJ academy wasn’t completely destroyed, it was damaged in the blaze. Significant repairs will be needed to restore the space to a functional state.
The damage was enough, however, that the gym will need to be relocated.
GB Vancouver owner Rodrigo Carvalho shared a message of unity and hope alongside the photo of the academy’s head instructor watching the fire progress at Frenchie’s:
“
WE LOST OUR HOUSE BUT WE DIDN’T LOSE OUR FAMILY.
This image says everything we had been through today. Our Head instructor watching GB Van burning down while our heroes ( firefighter ) trying to put an end to the fire.
We are glad all our staff and students had time to evacuate and nobody got hurt. Unfortunately we lost our house but our family ( friends and students) are standing behind us. We had many text messages, phone calls and even former students who contact us to reactivate their membership to help GB Vancouver.
In few days we will be announcing our new home!”
A GoFundMe has been started to help the gym get back on its feet. You can contribute to the cause here.
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