Spokane Community Rallies After Dear Coco Café Break-In

Owner Celeste Shaw faces health challenges as café recovers from $15,000 in losses

Apr. 4, 2026 at 9:06am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a broken cash register drawer or other damaged café equipment, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying the gritty aftermath of the burglary at Dear Coco Café.A recent break-in at Dear Coco Café has left the small business reeling, but the Spokane community has rallied to support the owner and staff through the recovery process.Spokane Today

Spokane's Dear Coco Café is recovering after a recent break-in that caused around $15,000 in losses, forcing the business to close for several days. Owner Celeste Shaw, who is already facing serious health challenges, says the community's support has helped her staff cope emotionally as they work to replace equipment, discard spoiled food, and keep the café going.

Why it matters

The break-in at Dear Coco Café highlights the challenges small businesses face, especially those run by owners dealing with personal hardships. The community's rallying support demonstrates the importance of local businesses and the impact they have on a neighborhood.

The details

Police have arrested a suspect in the burglary of Dear Coco Café, but the South Hill business is still reeling from the significant financial and operational impact. Owner Celeste Shaw estimates around $15,000 in losses, including damaged equipment and discarded food, as well as several days of closure while they worked to get the café back up and running.

  • Last week, the burglary occurred at Dear Coco Café.
  • The café was forced to close for several days following the incident.

The players

Celeste Shaw

The owner of Dear Coco Café, who is facing serious health challenges on top of the financial and operational impacts of the break-in.

Spokane Police

Authorities who have arrested a suspect in the burglary of Dear Coco Café.

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What they’re saying

“Community support has helped staff cope emotionally as they replace equipment, discard food and work to keep the café going.”

— Celeste Shaw, Owner, Dear Coco Café

The takeaway

This incident highlights the resilience of small businesses and the importance of community support, especially for owners facing personal challenges. The café's recovery efforts demonstrate the vital role local businesses play in a neighborhood.