Pizza shop in Adelaide’s leafy Dulwich torched
An eastern suburbs pizza shop owner targeted by arsonists has vowed — through tears — to rebuild his business for loyal customers, but says he is heartbroken after watching a dream go up in smoke.
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An eastern suburbs pizza shop owner targeted by arsonists has vowed — through tears — to rebuild his business for loyal customers, but says he is heartbroken after watching a dream go up in smoke.
Sugo Pizzeria owner Adrian Cracea cried as police and fire investigators walked through the charred remains of his Dulwich takeaway shop on Friday morning.
Mr Cracea said he was helpless as flames exploded from petrol cans placed by firebugs at the store — on the corner of Dulwich Ave and Stuart Rd — just hours earlier about 3am.
“My mind and thinking goes to my staff, the fact they have families … that they’re losing their job,” he said.
“(Hard work) is an understatement. It’s my life … (But) we’ll be back.
“I have to, life can’t stand still.”
The shop was badly damaged before firefighters extinguished the blaze. It did not spread to neighbouring businesses.
Mr Cracea called the attack “unbelievable” and said he would now focus on a second shop that will open at Golden Grove on Wednesday.
“There is no particular reason in my mind why (I was targeted),” he said.
“(But) a lot of customers have been loyal … I have to take what I can from here and go and (open next week),” he said.
The front shop window had been smashed and evidence of accelerant was found inside. Petrol tin caps were left on a footpath nearby.
Local residents were shocked as they came across the burned store.
Scott Jones said his two children were “disappointed” when they learned of the attack.
“It’s really sad, it’s a beautiful shop with great people in there,” he said.
“We know them really well … They’re always in there and they work long hours and always extremely friendly.
“Hopefully these guys can get back on their feet.”
Police say the incident is not related to an ongoing bikie feud.
Anyone with information the fire or saw anything suspicious in the area is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
