2-year-old killed, 14 injured after car crashes into Portillo's restaurant
A 2-year-old boy was killed and 14 others injured after a car crashed into a Portillo's restaurant in Oswego, Illinois, officials said.
Shortly before 2 p.m. local time on July 30, a car crashed through the front entrance of the restaurant in what officials believe was a "tragic accident," Oswego Police Chief Jason Bastin said at a briefing.
"We understand how difficult and emotional this incident is for everyone involved, to include the families impacted by this tragedy, as well as our community, our officers and the fire department personnel who responded," Bastin said.
Bastin said an investigation into the crash is ongoing, and police are reviewing surveillance video and witness statements "to determine exactly what occurred."
Oswego is about 40 miles west of Chicago. Portillo's is a Chicago-area fast food chain known for hot dogs and sandwiches.
8, including driver, hospitalized in Portillo's crash
Bastin said of the 14 injured in the crash, eight individuals, including the driver of the vehicle, were transported to area hospitals. Six others were treated at the scene and released, Bastin said.
Three of the victims had serious injuries, Josh Flanders, Oswego Fire Protection Chief, said.
The driver, a 50-year-old woman, was the only individual in the car when it crashed, Bastin said.
2-year-old was inside Portillo's when he was killed in crash
A 2-year-old boy was a patron inside the restaurant when the crash occurred, Bastin said. Officials have not released further information about the child's identity.
"On behalf of the police and fire department we extend our deepest condolences to the family during this devastating time," Oswego Police said in a social media statement. "We ask that their privacy be respected as they grieve this unimaginable loss."
'Deeply saddened': Portillo's issues statement on tragedy
In a statement to Paste BN, Portillo's said it is "deeply saddened" by the accident, adding that it is working with local authorities to assist in the investigation.
"Our thoughts are with those affected by this incident," the statement said. "As we continue to assess this unfolding situation, our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our guests and team members."
The Oswego restaurant will be closed July 31, Portillo's said.
This story has been updated to add new information.
Melina Khan is a national trending reporter for Paste BN. She can be reached at melina.khan@usatoday.com.