Tacoma’s food community has gone into overdrive to support Side Piece Kitchen co-owner Hailey Hernandez, who was badly burned in a freak accident at home earlier this month. Hernandez, about 17 weeks pregnant, was rushed to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle with severe burns and is still undergoing treatment, while neighbors, fellow restaurant owners and customers have turned a grassroots fundraiser into a financial lifeline for her family and the business.
How the blast happened and her injuries
According to KING 5, the accident started when Hernandez turned on a gas stove near a container of 99% isopropyl alcohol. The container ignited, sending burning liquid through the kitchen and setting her clothes on fire. KING 5 reports she suffered second- and third-degree burns to her face, hands, forearms, legs and feet and was transported to Harborview for specialized care.
Fundraiser climbs into five figures
A fundraiser launched by Side Piece Kitchen employee Maggie Turney has surged past $56,000 to help cover surgery, wound care, pregnancy-related needs and home repairs, according to the campaign page on GoFundMe. As of Feb. 6, the page lists $56,440 raised from 967 donations, reflecting a steady stream of support from across the community.
Local businesses and customers pitching in
Support has also been flowing in from other small businesses and loyal customers. KING 5 reports that the Cat & Rabbit Cake Shop contributed $500, and customers have been making a point to come by Side Piece Kitchen to support staff while Hernandez recovers. According to the station, the Side Piece team has reshuffled schedules and duties so the kitchen can keep operating while the owners focus on her medical care.
Why this matters locally
Side Piece Kitchen began as a commissary pop-up before opening a brick-and-mortar location in 2023. Co-founders Hailey and Dante Hernandez have turned the restaurant into a hub for community fundraisers and neighborhood organizing, according to KNKX. That track record of showing up for others helps explain why, after the accident, customers and neighboring businesses were so quick to show up for them.
What's next
Organizers say Hernandez’s medical team anticipates surgery and possible skin grafts for her left hand, and that recovery will mean a lengthy stretch away from the restaurant, according to the GoFundMe page. Harborview Medical Center serves as the region’s Level I trauma and burn center, UW Medicine notes, and the fundraiser page remains the main source for updates on her condition and the family’s needs.
