A Jeep crashed into a restaurant in Hinsdale on Monday afternoon, leaving five people injured. The incident occurred at Fontano’s Subs, located at 9 S. Lincoln St., prompting a swift response from Hinsdale police and fire crews. The victims included a 14-year-old pedestrian who was critically injured, three individuals inside the restaurant who were hit by the vehicle or debris, and one customer who was treated and released at the scene. The driver of the Jeep, however, escaped unharmed. The investigation is being assisted by the Major Crash Reconstruction Team from the DuPage County Merit Task Force.
Hinsdale police and fire crews were called to Fontano’s Subs at 9 S. Lincoln St. in response to a car crashing into the building. The incident occurred just after 2:35 p.m. on Monday. Among the victims was a 14-year-old pedestrian who suffered critical injuries. He was initially taken to Hinsdale Hospital and later transferred to Comer Children’s Hospital at the University of Chicago. Additionally, three individuals inside the restaurant were struck by the vehicle or debris and were transported to a Downers Grove hospital in serious condition. One customer inside the restaurant only required treatment at the scene.
According to officials, the Jeep was exiting a parking lot across the street when the crash took place. The driver of the vehicle wasn’t injured in the crash. The DuPage County Merit Task Force’s Major Crash Reconstruction Team is collaborating with Hinsdale police to investigate the incident. Footage of the scene was captured around 4 p.m., revealing a vehicle with its hazard lights on inside the restaurant. The front of the building suffered significant damage, with missing bricks and debris scattered throughout the interior. Witnesses described the aftermath as a “horrific scene.”
The incident at Fontano’s Subs has left the Hinsdale community shaken. Local residents expressed their concern for the injured victims and their families. The restaurant, a popular spot in the area, will likely face temporary closure as repairs are made. The investigation will focus on determining the cause of the crash and whether any factors, such as speed or impairment, contributed to the incident.
Fontano’s Subs is a well-known establishment in Hinsdale, known for its delicious sandwiches and friendly atmosphere. Local authorities may consider implementing additional safety measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.