SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. — Chef Floyd Thomas, a beloved local culinary figure, remains hospitalized following a fire that broke out at the grand opening of his family’s new food truck this past weekend.
Thomas, known to many as Chef Floyd, has been a staple at Morning Glory Catfish, a popular brick-and-mortar restaurant in Shelbyville. The family recently expanded their business by launching a food truck on Cannon Boulevard, which held its inaugural event before tragedy struck.
The fire, which is currently under investigation, caused severe burns to Thomas, with doctors reporting that more than half of his body was affected. His daughter’s boyfriend, who was present during the incident, also sustained injuries.
From his hospital bed, Thomas expressed a mixture of pain and hope. “I’m hurting. I’m burning, but I feel so hopeful because I know I’m going to get through this,” he said.
By his side is his wife, Cierra Brown, who described Thomas as “strong” and “a fighter.” She shared that when the pain becomes overwhelming, gospel music helps provide him comfort and strength during his recovery.
The community is rallying around Thomas and his family as they navigate this difficult time. Officials continue to investigate the cause of the fire.
