Woman arrested in House of Art fire in downtown Raleigh. ‘Our hearts are shattered.’
This story was updated Jan. 14, 2025.
A woman has been arrested and charged after a fire badly damaged the House of Art, a gathering space on East Hargett Street near Moore Square, on Jan. 7.
More than 30 firefighters responded to the blaze, which broke out around 3 a.m. They got the fire under control in about 30 minutes.
Eva Marie Torrellas, 59, was charged on Tuesday, Jan. 14, with felony burning of an unoccupied commercial structure Tuesday, according to a Raleigh Police Department news release.
Torrellas has previous charges pending of second-degree trespassing, a misdemeanor, and of misdemeanor larceny from the WakeMed gift shop, according to court records.
‘Quick response’ praised
“Thanks to Raleigh’s incredible firefighters, they were already on the scene before the call even came through,” the business said on its Instagram page after the fire. “Their quick response saved what they could, and we’re so grateful that no one was hurt.
“But our hearts are shattered,” the post continued. “House of Art isn’t just a venue — it’s a home for artists, musicians, and creatives of all kinds. It’s where ideas spark, connections are made, and memories are shared. It’s also the magical home of St. Nicks, Raleigh’s favorite Christmas pop-up.”
Surveillance video shared by House of Art staff shows a woman outside the business carrying what appears to be a bag and a book, reported ABC11, The News & Observer’s newsgathering partner. She then leaves the porch as what looks like smoke blows in front of the camera.
‘Everybody’s home’
The Downtown Raleigh Alliance describes The House of Art as a “social museum where guests enjoy drinks, events, live music, art, and photo opportunities,” according to its website. The cozy, turn-of-the century bungalow was the longtime home of Mo’s Diner and later Holly’s on Hargett.
Owner Mikhail Wright told ABC11 the House of Art is “everybody’s home.”
“I describe the House of Art as the heartbeat of Raleigh,” Wright said. “It’s the only place I know where everyone from everywhere can come together, communicate and talk, network and discuss art.”
The business has started a GoFundMe campaign to rebuild and support its staff. As of Tuesday afternoon, about 600 donors had pledged nearly $27,000 toward a $100,000 goal.
“People are online literally crying and mourning like someone died,” Wright said. “It’s everybody’s home. I created that. If you’re White, Black, Asian, gay or straight, it doesn’t matter. Everybody knows you can come here and be comfortable.”
This story was originally published January 7, 2025 at 8:56 AM.