Jay’s Smokin’ BBQ to change hands after owner’s cancer diagnosis

Fargo, N.D. (KVRR) — A local barbecue joint is changing hands after almost eight years of serving the Fargo-Moorhead community.

Jay’s Smokin’ BBQ announced the change on Facebook, saying owners Jay and Rochelle Henrichs were taking a step back from the business after Rochelle was diagnossed with Stage 3 colon cancer.

They are working to hand the business off, but they say the details are still being ironed out.

Jay’s first opened in the Moorhead Center Mall, before moving to their current location on Main Ave. in 2021.

In a statement to KVRR, they say “To be honest with you, we’re not sure what the future looks like. For Jay’s business wise, we wish nothing but success and growth for those who are taking it over. For Jay personally, we’re not sure what the future holds or what the next step is. Our focus currently is on getting Chelle through her cancer battle. Working on planning some fundraising ideas (such as a Dago day — but nothing officially set). So, I guess, we truthfully don’t have too many answers for what the future look like. Just hanging onto hope and faith.”

You can find a link to a gofundme for the family HERE.