EAST HAVEN, CT — A car ended up crashing into the Hot Roostah Restaurant on Route 80 Friday morning, which left a huge hole in the building, according to police and photos taken by WTNH News 8.
Police said at 5:24 a.m. Friday, police and fire personnel responded to 912 Foxon Road, Hot Roostah Restaurant, for a motor vehicle accident.
"Dispatch advised responding officers that a vehicle had crashed into a building, and the occupant was believed to still be in the vehicle," said Police Capt. Joseph M. Murgo. "When units arrived, they discovered a white SUV embedded into the side of the building with the driver still trapped inside."
East Haven Fire Department medics used the jaws of life to extricate the occupant of the vehicle, who had serious but non-life-threatening injuries, police said.
East Haven building officials responded to evaluate the condition of the building and have temporarily closed the business due to structural safety concerns.
"Preliminary investigation suggests the operator of the vehicle had just completed an overnight shift and fell asleep behind the wheel," police said. "It appears that he lost control of his vehicle, struck a street sign and a telephone pole, which catapulted him into the unoccupied building."
After the driver was extricated from the vehicle, he was treated by East Haven Fire Department medics and was taken to Yale New Haven Hospital for further evaluation.
Police said they are asking anyone who might have video of the incident to call police at 203-468-3820 or upload video at https://easthavenpdct.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/carvsbuilding
According to the restaurant's website, Hot Roostah Restaurant is the "ultimate Jamaican culinary escape! Savor our vibrant menu, featuring jerk chicken, curry goat, ackee and saltfish, and more. Indulge in authentic flavors delivered straight to your door or ready for pick-up. Embrace the island vibes with every bite—place your online order now and experience Jamaica at home!"
You can view WTNH News 8's photos from the scene here.
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