Fundraiser Started For Employees Of Destroyed Stamford Auto Shop

STAMFORD, CT — Several days after a fire destroyed an auto shop in the South End section of Stamford, a fundraiser has been launched to help the owner and employees get back on their feet.

A GoFundMe fundraiser was created by the daughter of Huberto Ortiz, who owns HO Automotive on Dyke Lane.

On June 4, a large fire broke out at the business, and an employee was injured. Several vehicles were inside the shop at the time and also involved in the fire, according to the Stamford Fire Department.

Around 50 firefighters were called to the scene and got the blaze under control in about 45 minutes. The fire caused smoky conditions in Stamford overnight.

The cause is under investigation by the Stamford Fire Marshal's Office.

"On June 4th, 2025, my dad’s autobody shop, HO Automotive, was completely destroyed in a sudden fire. It wasn’t just a business—it was his dream, his legacy, and a second home for so many of us," the fundraiser's description says.

According to the fundraiser, Ortiz came to the United States when he was 20 years old and looking for a better future for himself and his family.

Over the last 40 years, Ortiz built HO Automotive "from the ground up," and was at the Dyke Lane location for 23 years, the fundraiser noted.

Ortiz's other daughter and his two brothers also worked at the shop, according to the fundraiser organizer.

"The most heartbreaking part is that my dad was finally preparing for retirement. My dad is the most hardworking man that I know—he’s spent decades working long, physically demanding days without a single complaint," the fundraiser description notes. "After a lifetime of showing up for us and others, he’s now left with no income, no shop, and deep uncertainty about what comes next. As his daughter, I feel like it’s only right to share his story with you all and try my best to alleviate some of his worries."

As of Monday morning, over $8,000 was raised out of a goal of $50,000.

Along with helping the employees of the shop, the fundraiser will also benefit the employee who was injured during the fire.

"He now faces hardships, both physically and financially," the fundraiser description says. "Any contributions would be extremely helpful in relieving the stress of current financial struggles and supporting him in his time of healing."

To view the fundraiser and donate, visit GoFundMe's website.