Image Source: KCCI
In a startling turn of events last Sunday evening, a truck plowed through the front window of Pagliai’s Pizza, located in Johnston, Iowa, leaving diners in shock and disarray. The incident occurred around 5 p.m., as patrons were enjoying their meals, when a vehicle suddenly breached the restaurant‘s premises.
Security camera footage captured the dramatic moment when the truck crashed into the dining area, sending furniture and diners alike scattering across the room. As described by Travis Vander Weerdt, the owner of Pagliai’s Pizza, the noise of the crash was the loudest he had ever heard. “As soon as I heard it, I just took off running, ran as fast as I can over to see what happened, realized that yeah, there’s a truck in the building,” he recounted.
Thanks to the quick response of Vander Weerdt, damage assessments began almost immediately after the chaos unfolded. While there were two reported injuries, only one individual required hospitalization for minor injuries, highlighting a potential silver lining in what could have been a far more severe incident.
Details of the Incident
According to Johnston police reports, the driver of the truck, Edward Jones III, was arrested at the scene and faced multiple charges, including operating while intoxicated (OWI) and failing to provide proof of insurance. The officers who responded noted that Jones exhibited signs of intoxication, such as bloodshot eyes and slurred speech.
As stated in court documents, Jones had difficulty comprehending simple instructions from the attending officers, raising concerns about his state at the time of the incident. Vander Weerdt expressed relief that the outcome was not worse, mentioning the possibility of more serious injuries had patrons been seated just inches differently.
Restoration Efforts Underway
In the aftermath of the accident, the Pagliai’s Pizza team worked tirelessly to clean up the damage and assess their reopening timeline. The owner expressed hope that the restaurant could resume serving customers later that week, a goal driven by the overwhelming support from the community and a determination to restore the beloved dining establishment.
Despite the shock of the crash, patrons showed concern for each other, and local residents have begun rallying around the restaurant to offer help and show support. “It could have been a lot worse if they were set two inches further in one direction,” Vander Weerdt reflected, acknowledging everyone’s safety as the paramount outcome of the situation.
The quick actions of the owner and the quick emergency response helped mitigate what could have been a disastrous scenario for both the customers present and the restaurant itself. This incident not only raised discussions regarding restaurant safety but also fostered community resilience in the face of unexpected adversities.
Looking Forward
As Pagliai’s Pizza prepares to reopen its doors, the owner is hopeful that they can return to normal operations soon, continuing to serve delicious pizzas to the Johnston community. Diners are already expressing excitement over the prospect of returning to one of their favorite local eateries.
This incident serves as a reminder of the need for safety in dining establishments and the unpredictable nature of daily life. Community members are encouraged to stay updated on reopening announcements and lend their support to their local pizza shop.
FAQ Section
What happened at Pagliai’s Pizza?
A truck crashed through the front window and into the dining area of Pagliai’s Pizza, injuring two patrons.
Was anyone seriously injured in the crash?
Fortunately, only one person was hospitalized with minor injuries; everyone else reported no serious harm.
Who is the driver involved in the incident?
The driver was Edward Jones III, who has been charged with operating under the influence and failure to provide insurance.
How is the restaurant responding to the incident?
The restaurant team is working hard to repair the damage and aims to reopen for customers later this week.
What safety measures are being discussed after the accident?
This incident has prompted conversations about ensuring safety in restaurants, particularly regarding potential vehicular accidents.
