Community rallies around Chualar auto shop lost in a fire
CHUALAR, Calif. (KION)
The owner of Alcala's Machine Shop in Chualar is trying to piece together the future of his business after it was burned down in a fire Christmas Day.
On Monday, local residents and business owners came by to see what was left of the shop and expressed support for the owner and workers.
One worker says he's worked with Alcala's Machine Shop for thirteen years.
"This experience allowed us to see our real friends. people who are willing to hug and comfort us," says Saul Trejo.
The owner's son, Alfonso Alcala, says the business was a big piece of his childhood and a staple in the community for 29 years.
“This is a place where I grew up, a place for the community and it’s gone," says Alcala.
Fire crews were able to put out the fire within hours with the help other local fire departments.
Alcala says at least fifteen cars were destroyed at a shop next door.
Today, all that stands of Alcala's Machine Shop is rubble and Alfonso Alcala says the next step is coming together with insurance companies to determine how or if the shop will be rebuilt.
Alcala says a big concern remains for the sho's employees and is now asking for community support.
“Everybody’s devastated, these guys had single family incomes so as much as we took a hit, they took a hit as well," says Alcala.
Link to the shop's GoFundMe at:
