Lincoln, NE (May 10, 2026) – A toddler suffered serious injuries after a van crashed through the wall of a restaurant in Lincoln on Saturday, May 9. The accident happened just before noon at Cuba Restaurant and Bar on N 27th St.
Investigators said a 19-year-old driving the van experienced a medical emergency and lost consciousness before the vehicle left the roadway and slammed into the building. Customers and employees were inside the restaurant at the time of the collision.
Several people inside the restaurant and occupants in the van reported minor injuries after the crash. A 19-month-old child was seriously hurt and first received treatment at a local hospital before being transferred to Omaha for additional care.
The restaurant was forced to close after the accident because the building was considered unsafe due to the damage. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. We are thinking of those injured as they receive medical care.
How Medical Emergencies Can Lead to Serious Traffic Accidents
Medical emergencies behind the wheel can create dangerous situations in mere seconds. Conditions such as seizures, heart problems, fainting, or sudden loss of consciousness may cause a driver to lose control without warning.
When these incidents happen in busy commercial areas, buildings, pedestrians, and nearby vehicles can all be affected. Restaurants and stores located near roadways may face higher risks because cars can leave the road unexpectedly during a medical event.
Crash investigators often review witness statements, vehicle movement, roadway conditions, and the driver’s medical situation to better understand how the accident unfolded. Damage to structures is also examined to determine the impact force and whether the building remains safe for public use.
