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.
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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.
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