Posted in: Comics, Current News | Tagged: comic shop, Monarch Comics

Monarch Comics of Toledo, Ohio, Comic Store Burns Down

Monarch Comics Of Toledo, Ohio, Burns Down... but will it rise from the ashes next year? That's the plan.

Published Tue, 10 Dec 2024 10:57:07 -0600

Article Summary

A devastating fire at Monarch Comics in Toledo caused a total loss of all stock and closure of the store for now.
Manager Ed Katschke expresses gratitude for the overwhelming support from customers and the comics community.
Resilient plans are underway for Monarch Comics to potentially reopen by early next year after the tragic fire.
Ed Katschke is rallying help and exploring possibilities to restore Monarch Comics' future in NW Ohio.

Monarch Comics of Toledo, Northwest Ohio, posted the bad news to Facebook, with manager Ed Katschke saying "This is not the message I wanted to post this morning. Or ever, really. There was a fire at Colonial Village this morning that started around 3:30AM. Despite the best efforts of Toledo's finest Monarch Comics was a complete loss. We lost everything. All books, both new and old, are destroyed. Brian, Hill, and I surveyed the devastation ourselves this morning. I have no idea what the future holds for us at this point. I can definitely say that we are going to be closed for the time being. Thank you for all of your support over the years, not only the business, but the love, lives, and friendships you've shared with us." The message saw hundreds of posts from customers and comics creators offering support.

The next day, Katschke of Monarch Comics followed up, saying "Wow. I have to admit that I'm more than a little overwhelmed by the outpouring of support the store has received after the destruction we suffered earlier today. Really, it is much appreciated by myself, Hill, and Brian as the last 18 hours have been pretty rough. The good news is that plans are being hatched to get Monarch Comics up and running again. I'll admit it was quite a blow to walk through the wreckage, but after talking to my husband and some good friends, as well as getting a little nap, I think I've hatched some plans that may get us up and running for new comics by the beginning of next year. So stay tuned to this channel for more info soon. Brian and I will be surveying more of the damage tomorrow, and those of you volunteering to help lug things around may be contacted soon… Thanks again for all of your caring and support. It was badly needed today by all of us here at Monarch. We do love you all!"

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