A woman was taken into custody after crashing her SUV into a restaurant last Thursday evening. The incident occurred in Far North Dallas and sent four people to the hospital and injured several others, according to firefighters.
Dallas Fire-Rescue was called to the scene following reports of a major accident involving an SUV driving into a restaurant in the 18200 block of Preston Road, according to a fire department spokesperson.
Multiple customers of Speranza Ristorante Italiano (listed as Speranza Italian Restaurant on its website) were treated for minor injuries, while four individuals with more serious injuries were taken by ambulance to the hospital. The severity of these injuries is unknown.
The restaurant was in operation and open for business when the vehicle crashed into it. A video taken at the scene by Telemundo 39 showed debris inside and damage to one of the building’s walls.
The restaurant stated on an Instagram post, “At approximately 8:27 p.m. … a green SUV drove into the north wall of our restaurant injuring several people.” The post included a video of the incident recorded by the restaurant security camera.
“From the staff to the management we are heartbroken to all who experienced this terrible moment … and we wish a quick recovery to our injured friends,” the message read.
The driver of the SUV, 64-year-old Jan Bennett, was handcuffed and taken into custody by police. She has been charged with assault by intoxication with a vehicle.
Police reported that Bennett was intoxicated at the time of the crash.
The investigation is ongoing, and Bennett’s bail has been set for $25,000.
Since the incident, Speranza has had to close its dining area but is now offering delivery and pick-up orders. The restaurant is offering free delivery for those within a 5-mile radius of the restaurant.
In an Instagram post, a Speranza spokesperson stated, “Our waiters, kitchen staff, and management are thankful for your support in these difficult moments. We greatly appreciate you.”
The restaurant has a GoFundMe set up to raise $10,000 to repair the damage to their storefront.
