PEORIA, IL — Chaos erupted Sunday night in Central Peoria after a driver lost control of an SUV and crashed through the walls of Sharkey’s Fish & Chicken, a popular neighborhood restaurant.
The incident occurred at approximately 8:20 p.m. at the intersection of North Sterling Avenue and West Forrest Hill Avenue, prompting an emergency response from police, firefighters, and city officials.
Driver Detained After Crashing Into Building
According to reports from 25NewsNow, the mid-sized SUV smashed directly through the south wall of the restaurant and came to a stop fully inside the building. The driver, whose name has not been released, sustained minor injuries, was treated on scene, and later taken into custody by Peoria police.
Peoria Fire Department Battalion Chief Rick Waldron, speaking to Central Illinois Proud, confirmed the vehicle had penetrated deep into the structure. Gas and electricity were shut off as a precaution.
“The building sustained heavy damage and will be closed until further notice,” Waldron said, adding that city code enforcement was brought in to assess structural safety and gas exposure.
Customers and Employees Unharmed
Despite the SUV barreling through the dining area during peak dinner hours, no customers or employees were injured, a fact that firefighters called “extremely fortunate.”
Staff evacuated quickly, and patrons described the sound of the impact as “a loud explosion” followed by confusion and panic.
Investigation Ongoing, Building Temporarily Closed
Authorities have not released details regarding the driver’s condition, sobriety, or potential charges. The Peoria Police Department has confirmed the individual was “released into police custody” following field treatment.
City officials declared the restaurant temporarily unsafe for occupancy. Repairs will be required before reopening, though no timeline has been given.
As of Monday afternoon, the business remained closed with signage indicating structural work underway.
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