Gilbert, AZ — Peacock Wine and Book Bar in Gilbert is facing the aftermath of a car crashing into their establishment just before the New Year’s holiday. Although no one was injured, the financial implications are being felt.
Peacock Wine and Book Bar, located near Baseline and Gilbert roads, offers customers the opportunity to enjoy a glass of wine while diving into a good book. Owner Tracy Wallace, who opened the business in August 2019, envisioned a place where patrons could relax for a short visit or stay for an extended period.
The small business managed to navigate through the challenges of the pandemic, enduring a six-month closure and subsequent financial hurdles. However, what occurred on Friday seemed like a scene out of a fictional narrative, as a 21-year-old driver crashed into the storefront just as Wallace was preparing to leave for the holiday weekend. The impact dislodged a planter and an outdoor heater.
Fortunately, no one was harmed, even though seating was available on both sides of the glass. Wallace, who heard the sound of screeching tires and shattering glass from the back room, expressed her initial reaction with a smile, admitting that her first words were not suitable for television.
According to Wallace, the young driver explained that she had panicked and expressed deep remorse for the incident. Pictures of the crash revealed paper plates on the Toyota, leading a witness from a nearby coffee shop to speculate that it may have been the driver’s first day with her new car. Wallace described the driver as a young, very sweet girl and emphasized that the crash was an accident.
In anticipation of the New Year’s weekend, the wine and bookstore had hoped to generate around $9,000 in sales. Unfortunately, the unforeseen incident resulted in tens of thousands of dollars in repairs, lost wages, and the need to replace furniture. Wallace lamented the missed opportunity, but remains hopeful that her Southeast Valley community will rally behind the wine and book bar.
This is my life, this is my heart, I put everything I have into this place. I can’t see giving up and letting it go, Wallace expressed her commitment.
To aid in covering the loss of revenue and staff payroll, a GoFundMe campaign has been established.
The Peacock Wine and Book Bar faces the task of rebuilding in the wake of this unfortunate accident. As the owner focuses on getting the business back on track, she remains grateful for the support of her community. Wallace hopes that this latest chapter in her journey will age well, just like a fine wine.
