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Oswego officials offer condolences after Portillo’s incident that injured 13 and killed 2-year-old
Summary
Village officials expressed condolences, thanked first responders and described community vigils and a GoFundMe in response to an incident at a Portillo’s that injured 13 people and resulted in the death of a 2-year-old boy.
Village leaders addressed a tragic incident at the Portillo’s in Oswego, telling the board on Aug. 4 that 13 people were injured and a 2-year-old child was killed in the event last week.
Village President Kauffman opened the meeting by offering condolences on behalf of the board and community and thanking police, fire and bystanders for their quick response. He said, "As a father, I can't even begin to comprehend the pain and the heartbreak that this family is feeling." President Kauffman added that Oswego is a "strong and compassionate community" and that residents and officials would continue to support affected families.
Public Works/administration staff member Dan echoed the mayor’s condolences and thanked first responders and other agencies for being on scene "within 2 minutes" to assist. Trustee and other board members described private vigils, a GoFundMe established by the family, and other community support; Trustee Rochelle (last name not specified in transcript) said representatives from Portillo’s corporate and local clergy attended a private vigil that included English and Spanish prayers.
Trustees discussed taking steps to prevent similar incidents in the future, including reviewing infrastructure and prevention measures; Trustee Rochelle said she would partner with staff and other trustees to explore possible actions. The president also acknowledged the recent death of firefighter Bobby Flores from occupational cancer and noted a park-district ribbon cutting earlier in the week.
Ending Board members urged community support for the grieving family, noted ongoing private and public support efforts and asked staff to consider prevention and infrastructure measures to reduce the risk of future tragedies.
