South Bend, IN – A vehicle drove into the front of a South Bend Einstein Bros. Bagels location Tuesday morning, forcing emergency crews to stabilize the structure due to significant damage to a load-bearing wall.
According to the South Bend Fire Department, the crash occurred just after 8:30 a.m. when a vehicle struck the front of the building, located in a shopping plaza. Firefighters arrived on scene shortly after the incident and discovered that the impact had compromised structural elements, including the roof and HVAC system. Crews used temporary shoring equipment to ensure the safety of both responders and a tow crew on site.
Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation. Images released by the department show a black Ford SUV having crashed through the front of the store, with considerable interior damage visible from inside the café.
As a precaution, access to the building has been restricted until repairs can be made and the site is cleared by structural inspectors. Fire officials said crews acted quickly to minimize further risk.
Einstein Bros. Bagels has not yet released a public statement regarding the incident, including the status of store operations. The location is expected to remain closed until further notice.
The crash adds to a growing number of incidents involving vehicles striking commercial storefronts, often due to driver error or pedal confusion. No citations have been issued as of Tuesday morning, but police say they are continuing to review surveillance footage and interview witnesses.
Drivers are reminded to be especially cautious when navigating shopping centers and commercial driveways, especially during peak morning hours.
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