GLOCESTER – Two popular businesses in Chepachet had to temporarily close their doors following an accident early Saturday morning that caused major damage to a building and left the driver with serious injuries.
Who Cut the Cheesecake and Aegean Pizza were closed following a crash at 1195 Putnam Pike around 12:30 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 2. A third establishment in the same building, Heirloom Emporium, was deemed safe to open soon after the crash, and as of Thursday, Oct. 7, all three businesses had reopened, although seating for those who hoped to dine in was not yet available.
According to a release from the Glocester Police Department, the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, a 43-year-old female from Glocester, was transported to Rhode Island Hospital with serious injuries. No other injuries were reported.
Officers from the Glocester Police Department and Glocester EMS responded to the scene and learned that the car crashed through the front of the building and came to rest partially inside the pizza shop. The nearby intersection was temporarily closed during the investigation.
Fire and rescue personnel from Chepachet and Harmony deployed the Jaws of Life to extricate the driver.
On Sunday morning, Police Chief Joseph DePrete reportedly said she was in critical condition. He said that at one point, officers tried to pull the woman over, but she drove away and then hit the building. DePrete said she was suspected to be driving under the influence.
“The Glocester Building Official also responded, ordering part of the plaza to remain closed pending a structural assessment due to the catastrophic damage,” GPD noted.
The building inspector cleared Heirloom Emporium for reopening and the other two businesses received a green light later in the week.
During the brief closure, Who Cut the Cheesecake had their signature pastries shipped from Glocester to their second location in Millbury, Mass. The bakery provides cheesecakes for resale to more than a dozen other local businesses including The Beef Barn, Brewology and Assados.
The Glocester Business Association published a message of support for the two member businesses.
“The weekends are so crucial for small businesses,” GBA noted. “As we get into the holiday season, remember to shop and support small.”
The cause of the accident remains under investigation and police have not released the identity of the driver.
Editor’s note: The above article has been updated with the latest information as of Thursday, Nov. 7.
She must know someone to have her name concealed
So sorry for the injured and all involved.
May everyone be blessed with safety and continue to be able to thrive in a positive manner in the recovery of their daily lives.
Best of wishes
Donna
So sad that one person’s stupied mistake other people problems. 2 amazing shops are closed now. We are not happy .
Aegean is far from amazing.