**Vintage Store Owners Reflect on Devastating Incident in Chicago**
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Sarah Azzouzi and Kyla Embrey, co-owners of Lost Girls Vintage, have come forward to share their harrowing experience following a recent accident that saw a car crash through the front of their Logan Square store in Chicago. The incident, which occurred on March 18, has left the shop in disarray and has had an overwhelming impact on their business.
According to the owners, the damage inflicted during the crash has resulted in significant losses. They reported that “almost everything” in the shop was destroyed, including various vintage and handmade items that they had carefully curated over the years. The vintage store, known for its unique clothing and houseware, is now facing an uncertain future as it deals with the aftermath of the accident.
Azzouzi and Embrey learnt of the incident through a panic-stricken neighbour who called them while they were working at their studio. Upon arriving at the scene, they discovered that a driver, who was reportedly older, had accelerated rather than applied the brakes while in the drive-thru of a nearby McDonald’s. “The car went through the parking lot, drove perfectly through two bike racks and through our metal and glass windows,” Embrey recounted.
The vehicle crashed into a large marble table and several substantial metal fixtures before ultimately coming to a stop in the rear of their 1,000 square foot shop. Fortunately, the store was closed for maintenance on the day of the incident, which meant that no one was injured. “We were totally stunned,” Embrey expressed, reflecting on their shock and disbelief at the overwhelming response from the community.
Despite their relief at no injuries, the owners were quick to acknowledge the extensive damage that has resulted in a crippling blow to their business. “Almost everything is lost,” said Azzouzi. The duo lost numerous beautiful vintage collectibles, sculptures, art, and handmade goods—a significant financial setback that will take a toll on their operations moving forward.
The two business owners are currently collaborating with their insurance provider to assess the damage, which will dictate their next steps in recovery. “Replacing everything is going to put a big strain on our financials until we get help from our insurance,” Embrey added, underlining the difficulties small businesses face in such challenging times.
In the wake of the incident, Azzouzi and Embrey have expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the tireless support from their local community. “We have had countless offers from our community to help,” Azzouzi remarked, noting the kindness and generosity that has poured in since the accident.
Their Instagram account serves as a platform for sharing updates and photos of the destruction, allowing their followers to engage with their journey towards recovery. In a recent post, they indicated that while the housewares section of their store would require a temporary closure, the clothing section might also have to shut down. “We’d love any support you can give whether it’s through buying a gift card, shopping at our Division Street location, or just leaving a review,” they stated, urging their clientele to consider ways to assist.
On March 19, Azzouzi took to Instagram to voice her appreciation for the “kind messages, gift cards and Venmo donations” they have received, describing the outpouring of support as “pretty speechless.” This heartfelt response demonstrates the tight-knit nature of the local community and the resilience that emerges in trying times.
Lost Girls Vintage was born from a humble beginning in 2013 when Azzouzi and Embrey initially established the brand from a vintage 1976 RV. Since then, it has expanded into two retail locations in Chicago, catering to environmentally and fashion-conscious individuals. As they navigate the challenging path ahead, both owners remain hopeful for the future, buoyed by the encouragement and goodwill of their supporters.
As this situation develops, many will be watching closely to see how Lost Girls Vintage recovers from this calamity and continues to embody the spirit of resilience and community support that has characterised their journey thus far.