Smyrna Business Overcomes Unexpected Setback
The close-knit Smyrna community was rattled recently when a car crashed into a beloved local business. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident left a significant mark on Karin’s Kustard and Hamburgers, a community favorite, and the owners are working tirelessly to reopen soon.
An Unexpected Afternoon Surprise
Tuesday afternoon at Karin’s Kustard and Hamburgers was progressing like any other day. Discussions about Thanksgiving filled the air until an unexpected and terrifying interruption: the sound of a vehicle crashing into their building. The owner, Karin Dyer, recounted the shocking experience:
“We were having a conversation about Thanksgiving, then all of a sudden, we heard a big boom,” said Karin Dyer. “And then we ducked, and then they moved, and then the car was right there.”
The Incident and Immediate Aftermath
Skid marks outside the store revealed the power and speed of the vehicle that had swerved off Lowry Road. The damage done represented years of hard work by Karin Dyer and her husband, who had built the business over the past two decades.
Dyer expressed gratitude that the crash avoided tragedy:
“If [the driver] would have clipped one of the vehicles that were parked or in the drive-thru, it would have turned her car differently, and she would’ve hit the gas line that’s right in front of the building,” she explained. “And then it would have just taken all of us out, so I’m very thankful.”
Investigating the Crash
Currently, the Smyrna police are investigating the crash. The initial findings suggest the driver might have fallen asleep at the wheel. Fortunately, both the driver and a young child in the back seat escaped without injury.
Plans to Rebuild and Reopen
Determined to get back to business, the Dyers are navigating insurance procedures and working with contractors to repair the damage. Despite the chaos, Karin Dyer remains focused on the positivity and support from the community:
“Just send prayers to us,” Dyer encouraged. “Some people have asked about [doing] a GoFundMe account, but I want everybody to take care of their own families.”
Anticipated Reopening
The Dyers aim to reopen Karin’s Kustard and Hamburgers before the end of the year, ideally within a few weeks. For them, the urgency to reopen comes from a deep connection to their customers and community.
A Passionate Community Hub
Karin’s Kustard and Hamburgers isn’t just a business—it’s a focal point of community life. Karin Dyer emphasized her commitment:
“I’m still shaken up. We are very well-known in the community, and the community supports us very well,” Dyer said. “I’m very thankful and grateful for what I do for the community and what they do for us.”
The Community’s Resilience
Amidst the setback, the Dyers have chosen to highlight community spirit over misfortune. Just before the crash, they had received a shipment of food intended for customers. In a gesture of goodwill, they are planning to donate this food, embodying the communal support they’ve been shown.
Looking to the Future
With a plan in motion and community backing, Karin’s Kustard and Hamburgers is poised to bounce back stronger than ever. This episode underscores the importance of local businesses to community identity and resilience.
As Karin Dyer and her team work toward reopening, they hold fast to their dedication to serving their beloved customers—a testament to the enduring spirit of small-town businesses and the deep bonds they share with their communities.
For updates and further developments, the Smyrna community and loyal patrons of Karin’s Kustard and Hamburgers eagerly await the reopening of their cherished local eatery.
Source: https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/smyrna-business-eager-reopen-car/