Four months ago, Joyful Tea was gone in an instant following a large fire at the Boise International Market.
Originally deemed as an accident, investigators with the Boise Police Department and Boise Fire Department released information on January 5th declaring the fire was arson.
For Joyful Tea’s owner, Terry Hathaway, the loss of his priceless china was recouped by a generous community.
“These have all been donated by the community. I haven't bought a single piece of china. This is such an eclectic blend because it belongs to everybody," he proudly explained.
Joyful Tea wasn’t the only company at the market that received support following the fire as donations poured in.
Terry decided that he would reopen his business and located the company near State and Glenwood which is still receiving ample business due to his exposure at the Boise International Market.
“It was a great place to start. Now we're here and this is the perfect place for us at this time."
Although the fire is now being called arson, Terry said that he is looking forward and doesn't want to live in the past reflecting that horrible night.
The case will continue to remain open and Boise Police are asking for any information about activity occurring in the building that day. A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered by the Idaho Arson Award Program for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of person(s) responsible for this fire. If you have any information regarding this case, please contact Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office Arson Line at 1-877-75-ARSON, or Crime Stoppers at 343-COPS. You can also submit your tip on their website, or text “Tip236 plus your message” to 274637 (CRIMES).
