Oswego, IL – Authorities have released additional information surrounding a devastating crash at a suburban Portillo’s that killed a 2-year-old boy and left over a dozen people injured earlier this week. Investigators are still working to determine whether charges will be filed against the driver involved.
The Crash Incident
According to FOX 32 Chicago, the tragedy occurred around 1:55 p.m. on Wednesday when a 2011 Lincoln MKZ Sedan plowed through the front entrance of the Portillo’s restaurant located at 2810 Route 34 in Oswego.
Authorities reported that a total of 13 people were injured in the crash:
- 8 victims were transported to nearby hospitals, with ages ranging from their 20s to their 60s
- 5 others were treated on the scene for less serious injuries
- The 2-year-old child, who was dining with family, was taken to Rush Copley Medical Center in Aurora where he was later pronounced dead
Cause of Death and Community Reaction
An autopsy conducted by the Kane County Coroner’s Office revealed the boy died from multiple traumatic injuries. Additional testing is still pending as part of the ongoing investigation.
“This is a tragic and heartbreaking situation for our community,” said Kane County Coroner Monica Silva. “As a mother, it breaks my heart to think about the loss of a child who was sharing a meal with his family at a restaurant. I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of the child and to all those who were injured in the crash.”
What We Know About the Driver
On Friday, Oswego police revealed that the driver behind the wheel was a 50-year-old woman from Canton, Michigan.
“Preliminary findings suggest the crash may have been accidental in nature; however, the exact cause remains under investigation. At this time, it has not been determined whether charges will be filed against the driver,” police said in a statement.
The identity of the driver has not been publicly released, and authorities have not yet confirmed whether medical or mechanical issues played a role in the collision.
Ongoing Investigations
The Oswego Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident, focusing on the events that led to the crash. The coroner’s office is also actively working on the final medical reports to better understand the child’s injuries.
The restaurant, which had a full dining room at the time of the crash, has not commented on the incident publicly.
A Community in Grief
As the community processes the shock of losing such a young life in a public, family-friendly setting, many are raising questions about safety protocols in high-traffic commercial areas and how they can be improved to prevent vehicle-involved tragedies.
Should commercial spaces be required to add barriers or protection at entrances to prevent vehicle crashes like this one?
Join the discussion at BethelAdvocate.com — your comments help shape how we talk about safety in our neighborhoods.
