UPDATE: A newly opened jewelry making studio in Berkeley has been forced to close following a shocking burglary over the weekend. Amy Fitzgerald, the owner of Silverwork Studios, reported that a man broke in through a side door and stole over $10,000 worth of equipment and materials.
The burglary occurred late Saturday night, leaving Fitzgerald and her team devastated. “We worked so hard to create a welcoming space for the community, and now this has happened,” she said, expressing her frustration and disappointment. The incident has not only impacted her business financially but has also shaken the sense of safety in the neighborhood.
Authorities confirmed that they are actively investigating the break-in. Local police are reviewing security footage from the area and asking anyone with information to come forward. The community is rallying around Fitzgerald, with many expressing their support and planning to visit the studio once it reopens.
This incident underscores the vulnerabilities small businesses face, especially those that have just opened their doors. Fitzgerald’s studio, which emphasizes DIY jewelry making, was designed to foster creativity and community engagement. The loss of such a significant amount of inventory and tools poses a serious setback for the newly established business.
As of now, Silverwork Studios remains closed while Fitzgerald assesses the damage and works with law enforcement. “It’s heartbreaking to see our dreams affected like this,” she stated. The studio aims to reopen as soon as possible, but the timeline remains uncertain.
Community members are encouraged to support Silverwork Studios by following their social media pages and keeping informed about reopening plans. Fitzgerald hopes to recover from this incident and continue providing a space for creativity and connection in Berkeley.
This developing story highlights the importance of community support for local businesses, particularly in times of crisis. Follow us for the latest updates on this situation and how you can help.
