2-Year-Old Killed, 13 Injured After Car Plows Into Portillo’s Restaurant in Oswego, Illinois
Oswego, IL – July 30, 2025 — What began as a regular lunchtime at a popular Portillo’s location ended in horror on Wednesday afternoon when a vehicle crashed into the restaurant, killing a 2-year-old child and injuring thirteen others in a shocking and tragic accident that has shaken the tight-knit Oswego community.
The devastating crash occurred around 1:55 p.m. at the Portillo’s located on Route 34. According to the Oswego Police Department, the vehicle, driven by an adult male in his 50s, slammed through the building’s front entrance at high speed, striking patrons and employees without warning.
Panic and Chaos Inside the Restaurant
Witnesses described a scene of chaos and disbelief as the vehicle tore into the crowded dining area. “It was like a bomb went off,” one customer recounted. “People were screaming, crying, and trying to pull others out from under the debris.”
The 2-year-old victim, whose identity has not been publicly released, was reportedly with their family when the crash occurred. The child was pronounced dead at the scene, despite the rapid arrival of emergency medical teams. Thirteen others were injured—several seriously—and were transported to area hospitals for treatment. As of Thursday morning, the conditions of the injured have not been formally updated.
Driver Detained, Cause Under Investigation
Police say the driver remained on scene and cooperated with investigators. At this time, no charges have been filed. Authorities are exploring multiple potential causes for the crash, including a medical emergency, mechanical failure, or driver impairment. The vehicle is undergoing a full forensic inspection, and the driver’s blood samples were taken for toxicology testing.
Surveillance footage from the restaurant and neighboring businesses is also being reviewed as part of the investigation, which is being led by the Oswego Police Department with assistance from the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office and Illinois State Police.
Community in Mourning
As news of the tragedy spread, the Oswego community gathered outside the Portillo’s location, leaving flowers, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes of love and sympathy for the child’s family. A candlelight vigil is being organized for Friday evening to honor the victim and support all those affected.
Mayor Troy Parlier issued a statement expressing grief and solidarity:
“This is an unimaginable tragedy for our town. Our hearts go out to the family of the young child who was lost, and we are praying for the recovery of all the injured. Oswego is a strong community, and we will support each other through this difficult time.”
Portillo’s also released a public statement:
“We are deeply saddened by the events that took place at our Oswego location. Our hearts are with the victims and their families. We are fully cooperating with authorities in their investigation and doing everything we can to assist those impacted.”
Public Safety Questions Raised
The incident has reignited calls from public safety advocates to implement additional safeguards at high-traffic commercial establishments. Recommendations include installing crash barriers, reinforced outdoor seating zones, and better parking lot configurations to prevent similar tragedies.
“We’ve seen too many of these crashes,” said one safety consultant. “They’re rare, but when they happen, the results are devastating—especially when children are involved.”
Ongoing Investigation
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the crash or has video footage from the area to come forward. The Oswego Police Department can be reached at (630) 551-7300. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the department’s website.
For now, a family mourns the loss of their precious child, a community comes together in grief, and the search for answers continues.