Memorial grows after toddler killed, 13 injured in crash at Oswego Portillo's at 2810 Route 34
Share this @internewscast.com

OSWEGO, Ill. (WLS) — People have been stopping by a crash scene at an Oswego Portillo’s to pay their respects.

A driver crashed into the restaurant Wednesday, killing a 2-year-old boy.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Evelyn Homes is live in Kane County, where the cause of this tragic accident is still not known

Oswego resident Chris Baker kneels in prayer as the community attempts to comprehend the tragic accident at Portillo’s, which resulted in the death of a 2-year-old boy.

“As a father of three, I can’t imagine the ordeal the family is enduring, especially those injured and, most heartbreakingly, the family that lost their young child,” Baker expressed. “It’s an unbelievably tragic situation. I can’t fathom being in their shoes.”

Moments later, a man and his 10-year-old daughter added to the memorial that continues to grow just feet from now shuttered restaurant.

The crash happened around 2 p.m. Wednesday as the restaurant was packed with customers.

Preliminary reports from investigators indicate that a 50-year-old woman accidentally crashed her car through the entrance of the popular far west suburban restaurant near Route 34.

Oswego police said the toddler was hit and died at a nearby hospital from his injuries.

John Proud, who worked at the Oswego Portillo’s for several years, was employed at a different nearby restaurant when the tragic event unfolded on Wednesday.

“When it occurred, it was right when I usually take my cigarette break, so I feel grateful I wasn’t there, but it was sheer chaos,” Proud recounted.

In a statement, Portillo’s expressed, “We are profoundly saddened by the tragic accident involving a vehicle that impacted our Oswego restaurant this afternoon, and our thoughts are with those affected. As we continue to evaluate this ongoing situation, our main priority is the safety and well-being of our guests and employees. We appreciate the swift response of the emergency services who attended the scene and are cooperating fully with local authorities in their investigation. At present, the Oswego Portillo’s will remain closed for the rest of the day. We will direct further inquiries to local law enforcement.”

Meanwhile, local investigators have shared few details about what caused the accident while the community rallied around one another.

Early Thursday morning, the Oswego School District posted to social media, “In moments like these, we are reminded of the strength and compassion of our community. Let us continue to support one another with kindness.”

“People are just torn up and sad, but Oswego will heal,” Baker said. “We’re a strong community and will come together and surround these folks that were impacted. So many people.

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Fox News ‘Antisemitism Exposed’ Newsletter: New York's new mayor leaves city's Jewish community terrified

New York’s Jewish Community Alarmed by Mayor’s Policies: Fox News’ ‘Antisemitism Exposed’ Highlights Growing Concerns

Fox News’ “Antisemitism Exposed” newsletter uncovers the surge of anti-Jewish sentiment both…
ICE in Chicago: Federal judge issues injunction against immigration agents' use of force in Chicago area

Federal Judge Halts Aggressive ICE Tactics in Chicago: A Major Win for Immigrant Rights

A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction against the use of…
Two baby boys with same name born minutes apart at same hospital

Unbelievable Coincidence: Two Baby Boys Named the Same, Born Minutes Apart at the Same Hospital

Just 11 minutes apart, two families celebrated the arrival of Myles and…
Breaking: Massive Vehicle Explosion Rocks Bronx, Injures 7 Firefighters – What Caused It?

Bronx Vehicle Explosion Injures 7 Firefighters: Investigation Underway to Uncover Cause

An enormous explosion, believed to have originated from a vehicle, shook the…
Murder charge added for Jacksonville inmate accused of beating cellmate a week before her death

Jacksonville Inmate Faces Murder Charge Following Cellmate Assault Prior to Her Death

Virginia Hampton has been charged with murder following the tragic death of…
Illegal immigrant allegedly kills county board member and wife in fatal DUI crash: DHS

Public Outcry as Alleged Drunk Driving Incident Involving Undocumented Immigrant Claims Lives of Couple in Blue State: ‘When Will It End?

An Illinois state senator is expressing outrage after the tragic deaths of…
Parents of Kayla Mueller ask President Trump to bring daughter's remains home from Syria in letter

Kayla Mueller’s Parents Urge President Trump to Repatriate Her Remains from Syria

EXCLUSIVE: In a heartfelt plea, Carl and Marsha Mueller, the parents of…
Chicago shooting: Family calls for justice after teen boy John Thomas shot, killed on West Grenshaw Street in University Village

Heartbroken Family Seeks Justice After Teen John Thomas Fatally Shot in Chicago’s University Village

The family of a 15-year-old who tragically lost his life in Chicago’s…
Michigan State University partially reverses policy on co-ed community bathrooms after complaint

Michigan State University Amends Co-Ed Community Bathroom Policy Following Concerns

Michigan State University has reconsidered its earlier decision to convert all community…
Florida AG files lawsuit against Planned Parenthood, claims abortion drugs are 'misrepresented'

Florida Attorney General Sues Planned Parenthood Over Alleged Misrepresentation of Abortion Medications

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — On Thursday, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier declared legal…
Illinois 4th Congressional District Rep. Jesús 'Chuy' García discusses decision to not run for reelection, anoint chief of staff

Rep. Jesús ‘Chuy’ García Steps Down: The Surprising Decision and His Successor in Illinois’ 4th District

CHICAGO (WLS) — In an exclusive conversation with ABC7 Chicago, Representative Jesús…
Meghan Markle returning to acting after 8-year hiatus

Meghan Markle Set to Make a Comeback in Acting After Eight Years Away

Meghan Markle is reportedly making a return to the acting world. The…