CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — Premier Martial Arts stores in both Cranston and North Kingstown closed abruptly Tuesday night.
A statement released to students and their families Tuesday night cited building issues and “sudden franchise legal action” as reasons for the immediate closure.
Head instructor Brady Curran, who has worked at the Cranston location for 16 years, said teaching martial arts is more than just a job to him.
“It was definitely a huge shock and definitely turned our whole world upside down,” Curran said.
Parents are emotional about the closure, but some are concerned that they paid up to $2,000 in membership fees upfront.
“We have to deal with the devastation of having a child suddenly removed from the community, but we also have to deal with where to re-enroll her and how much it will cost. “Hmm,” one parent told 12 News.
“[Martial arts] They are building self-esteem and will help you with anything,” she continued. “My kids went to sleep crying and today they woke up crying. It's frustrating as a parent not to have control.”
Local studio owners said in a statement that active negotiations are underway with other studios to reopen their doors as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, Anthony Pezzillo, director of Mastery Martial Arts, stands ready to assist the affected families.
“The most important thing [I want to] Take care of his community and his staff,” Pezzillo said. “We plan to meet with the owners and their staff and work together to change the organization for the better.”
12 News reached out to Premier Martial Arts' corporate office but did not receive a response.
