Oswego, IL – A routine afternoon at a popular Portillo’s restaurant turned into a tragic scene on Tuesday when a car slammed into the dining area, killing a 2-year-old boy and injuring 13 others. The shocking crash has raised urgent questions about safety protocols at busy commercial establishments.
The Scene of the Incident
According to Fox 32 Chicago, the incident happened around 1:55 p.m. on July 30, 2025, at the Portillo’s located at 2810 Route 34 near Douglas Road in Oswego, Illinois — a suburb about 45 miles southwest of Chicago.
A 50-year-old woman from Canton, Michigan, was driving a 2011 Lincoln MKZ when her vehicle crashed through the front of the restaurant. Authorities said she was the sole occupant of the car at the time.
Chain of Events
Witnesses described a sudden and horrifying scene as the vehicle plowed through the glass entrance and into a crowded dining area.
Among the victims was a 2-year-old boy, who was inside the restaurant during the crash. He was rushed to Rush Copley Medical Center in Aurora, where he was pronounced dead from multiple traumatic injuries. The Kane County Coroner released those findings following an autopsy.
A total of 13 other people were hurt in the incident. Eight were transported to local hospitals with injuries ranging from minor to moderate, while five others were treated on-site and released.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. At this time, there is no indication of foul play or impairment, but further testing is underway.
Emergency Response and Traffic Impact
The Oswego Police Department and Oswego Fire Protection District responded swiftly, closing off the area around the restaurant and securing the scene.
Emergency vehicles remained on site for several hours as investigators reviewed surveillance footage and gathered evidence. Route 34 experienced delays as first responders worked to clear debris and assist victims.
Portillo’s management has temporarily closed the restaurant and expressed condolences to the affected families, promising full cooperation with authorities.
A Growing Concern
The tragedy has reignited discussions about customer safety in restaurant settings, particularly regarding physical barriers between parking lots and dining areas.
“This was a preventable tragedy. These buildings need better protection,” said a local resident who brought flowers to a growing memorial outside the restaurant.
Police have not filed any charges at this time, but the investigation is ongoing. Updates from the coroner’s office and traffic safety officials are expected in the coming days.
“This is a devastating loss. Our hearts are with the family of that little boy,” said an Oswego official.
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