News Summary
A tattoo artist in Virginia Beach endures severe setbacks after two fires destroyed her workplace and personal vehicle. The first blaze at Seven Cities Tattoo Company caused extensive damage, prompting community support and temporary work arrangements. Months later, her vehicle caught fire while traveling, leading to further loss of equipment and supplies. Despite these tragedies, she remains resilient, working with local studios and receiving community backing. The incidents highlight the strong bonds within the tattoo industry and the ongoing recovery efforts amid investigations into the fires.
Virginia Beach – Karina Sayward, a tattoo artist, is grappling with severe setbacks after suffering losses from two catastrophic fires that occurred within a few months of each other. The first incident took place in May at the Seven Cities Tattoo Company on Virginia Beach Boulevard, while the second fire destroyed her vehicle and belongings on a Connecticut highway.
The May fire erupted at the Seven Cities Tattoo Company, prompting firefighters to respond swiftly at 2:16 a.m.. The blaze, which was controlled within 25 minutes, resulted in substantial damage from smoke and flames. Fortunately, no one was inside the shop when the fire broke out. After the incident, Sayward reported that she lost not only her essential tattoo equipment but also her personal belongings and her sense of security. The extent of damage continues to necessitate an investigation by local authorities, and the building has been condemned as cleanup efforts progress.
Following the destruction of the Seven Cities Tattoo Company, a GoFundMe campaign has been established, raising nearly $10,000 to help support the recovery efforts for the affected tattoo artists, including Sayward. The owner of the shop, Michael Vasquez, confirmed that everything inside had been obliterated and stressed the financial impact on his six tattoo artists. He has received assistance from the local tattoo community, including a temporary workspace offered by Flying Tiger Social Club, which allows Vasquez and three of his artists to continue their work.
The second fire occurred months later when Sayward was traveling back from a guest tattooing spot in Massachusetts. While driving along a Connecticut highway, her car caught fire, leading to its total loss. She managed to escape the vehicle without injury, but the incident resulted in the destruction of her remaining tattoo equipment, painting supplies, and personal wardrobe. While the fires have devastated her professionally and personally, Sayward has found refuge in working at Studio Evolve in Virginia Beach.
Despite the adverse circumstances, Sayward has witnessed remarkable solidarity from the tattoo community during these trying times. Numerous local artists and clients have rallied to provide clothing, supplies, and moral support. Through it all, she has emphasized the invaluable nature of life and well-being over material possessions.
The community’s response to both incidents showcases the bonds and relationships within the tattoo industry, highlighting the unique support systems that exist in times of crisis. Local residents and supporters have stepped up to aid the recovery of not only Sayward but also the broader tattoo community affected by the misfortune of the fire at Seven Cities Tattoo Company.
As the investigation into the cause of the May fire continues, the community remains focused on recovery and support. The challenges faced by Karina Sayward and the tattoo artists at Seven Cities serve as a poignant reminder of the strength in unity even amid struggles.
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- 13 News Now
- Wikipedia: Tattooing
- WAVY News
- Google Search: Virginia Beach tattoo shop fire
- WTKR News
- Google Scholar: Virginia Beach tattoo community
- 13 News Now Report
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tattoo
- Daily Press
- Google News: Virginia Beach tattoo fire
Author: STAFF HERE VIRGINIA BEACH WRITER
VIRGINIA BEACH STAFF WRITER The VIRGINIA BEACH STAFF WRITER represents the seasoned team at HEREVirginiaBeach.com, your trusted source for actionable local news and information in Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach City, and beyond, delivering "news you can use" with comprehensive coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news impacting the region—supported by years of expert reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates, while offering top reporting on high-profile events like the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival, East Coast Surfing Championship, and military homecoming celebrations, alongside key organizations such as the Virginia Aquarium, Virginia Beach Convention Center, and Oceana Naval Air Station, plus leading businesses in tourism and defense like Busch Gardens and Northrop Grumman, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREWilliamsburg.com, providing credible, in-depth insights into Virginia's vibrant landscape. HERE Virginia Beach HERE Williamsburg
