EUNICE, LA — A fire that broke out Sunday afternoon at Ray’s Bakery has left the beloved local institution in ruins, sending shockwaves through the tight-knit community. The fire, which destroyed much of the iconic bakery, is believed to have been caused by an electrical malfunction.
Ray’s Bakery, a cornerstone of Eunice since 1959, was a popular gathering place, especially after Sunday church services. Residents fondly recall stopping by the bakery for fresh, hot pocket bread, sugar cookies, and king cakes. The bakery’s chocolate donuts, in particular, were a favorite of many.
Terry Darbonne, the Eunice City Marshal, expressed his deep sense of loss as he visited the scene of the fire. “This is very much the heart of the community,” he said. “Every Sunday after church, this was the place to pass by — Ray’s Bakery.” For Darbonne, as with many longtime Eunice residents, the bakery was more than just a business; it was a cherished part of his childhood.
The Eunice Fire Department responded quickly to the blaze, confirming that the building was empty at the time of the fire. The fire was under control within an hour, but the damage was extensive. Crews are now working to board up the building, which has been left with charred walls and shattered glass. The vintage 1940s shelving and much of the bakery’s inventory, including its famous king cakes, were destroyed in the fire.
Steven Oncale, the current owner and son of the bakery’s founder, walked through the wreckage on Sunday, visibly shaken by the destruction of a family legacy. “It’s shock and awe right now,” Oncale said, struggling to come to terms with the damage. “It really hasn’t hit me yet.”
Ray’s Bakery, a place that has been an integral part of Eunice for over six decades, holds a special place in the hearts of residents, and the loss has left many grieving. Oncale spoke of the bakery’s long history and the deep emotional connection the community has with it. “This place has been here since 1959,” he said. “I guess the only thing to do is rebuild.”
In the wake of the tragedy, the Eunice community has rallied to support the bakery and its employees. A donation account has been set up at Washington State Bank under the name “Helping Hands of Eunice” to assist with the bakery’s recovery. In addition, a benefit dinner is being organized by local resident Joey Trichell to help the bakery’s employees, who are currently without work due to the fire.
Darbonne expressed his gratitude for the swift response from both the fire department and the community’s efforts to assist. “People in this community help each other,” he said. “It’s a testament to the strength and spirit of Eunice.”
Oncale, though still grappling with the loss, was overwhelmed by the support. “I am sorry for the inconvenience, and we thank you for your patience,” he said. “We will be back soon. We’re going to try.”
While the fire has left a significant void, the community’s resilience and determination to restore Ray’s Bakery are clear. The road to rebuilding will be long, but with the support of Eunice’s residents, it’s a journey that Oncale and his team are committed to seeing through.