A fire broke out at the South End home of a downtown bakery owner over the weekend, leaving the building severely damaged and displacing her family of four.
Chelsea Annett, her husband, a daughter, 15, and son, 12, have lived on Badger Street for more than five years, though they have lived in Concord for longer.
“Pretty much everything is a total loss at this point,” Annett said.
Concord firefighters responded to Badger Street midday Saturday, just after 12:15, to what was reported as a bedroom fire, according to Chief John Chisholm. Significant flames were visible upon their arrival and, while the fire was knocked back within minutes and under control in about a half-hour, the blaze left much of the ranch-style home fire-damaged and the rest smoke- and water-damaged.
Annett opened Table, a bakery in Eagle Square, in July 2024, and it has since become a hub for those seeking fresh buns and breads, and also for community events. It’s a family business, with the friendly faces of her husband, children and father often behind the counter with her.
There were no injuries in the fire and everyone, including a family cat named Vance, were able to evacuate safely.
The last few days have been “overwhelming,” Annett said, both the fallout from the fire and the support from her community.
While they have secured emergency housing, Annett’s family is in search of a three-bedroom in the Concord-area that allows pets. Online fundraisers in support raised thousands over the weekend.
Annett said Monday that the current plan is for Table to open normally this weekend, though some reduced hours and menu are possible as necessary while she secures new housing. Updates will be posted on their website.
The source of the blaze was candle-related and accidental, according to Chisholm. He reminded residents to ensure candles always have clear surroundings and are never left unattended.