Firefighters responded to a reported fire at the Village Coffeehouse on Durant Road near Capital Boulevard in Raleigh on Monday night at approximately 9 p.m. The historic coffee shop, a longtime neighborhood gathering spot, ignited and quickly sent smoke into the apartment unit directly above.
Resident describes the scene
Sydney Trahin, who lives in the second‑floor apartment, told WRAL News that she first noticed an odd smell earlier in the day. “I didn’t see anything inside, but I did smell something odd,” she said. Later, as the fire intensified, she was awakened in her pajamas by the coffee shop owner pounding on her door. When she looked outside, thick smoke was pouring from the front of the building.
Firefighters work to contain the blaze
The Raleigh Fire Department cleared the scene after the initial flames were extinguished, but the fire reignited later in the evening, prompting a second response. Crews worked through the night to fully suppress the blaze and prevent further damage to the surrounding structures.
Impact on the coffeehouse and apartment
The Village Coffeehouse remains closed as of Tuesday. The owner posted on Instagram, “Due to fire damage sustained yesterday, we will be closed until further notice. Please check back here for updates.” Trahin explained that her belongings on the upper floor have suffered smoke damage, and she will not be able to return to her apartment anytime soon.
Historic building at risk
Both residents and local historians expressed concern over the damage to the building, which is considered a historic part of the Raleigh community. “It’s devastating for the building,” Trahin said, emphasizing the cultural loss that could accompany extensive repairs.
No injuries reported
Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident. The fire department continues to investigate the cause of the blaze, and officials have asked anyone with information to come forward.
What comes next?
Owners of the Village Coffeehouse are assessing the extent of the damage and will provide updates on reopening plans. Residents of the affected apartment are seeking temporary housing assistance while repairs are underway. The Raleigh Fire Department will release a final report once the investigation is complete.
Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.
