Portillo's Fight Not Racially Motivated: Oswego Police

OSWEGO, IL — Police confirm June 2 after initial investigation that the incident at Portillo's May 16 between an 18-year-old employee and a 48-year-old customer was not racially motivated.

"Neither party involved indicated that any racial remarks were made by either party towards the other or that any actions were racially motivated," according to an Oswego Police press release.

During the initial investigation May 16, neither man involved signed complaints against the other. Police said both parties indicated their actions were "based on feeling threatened by the other person."

Police said the incident started at the Route 34 Portillo's after the employee spilled a drink in the customer's car. No charges were filed in the incident.

The Montgomery teenager had hair pulled from his head, suffered a sprained elbow and was transported to a hospital from the scene, according to police. The customer, from Aurora, sustained injuries to his face and body but declined treatment.

A cell phone video the incident landed on social media after the incident and prompted allegations of a racially motivated attack.

Over the span of two weeks, police said they interviewed more than 20 witnesses, including employees, customers and the man and teen involved. Police were able to conduct an in-depth interview with the customer following the incident, but the employee wasn't able to interview with police until May 17 due to treatment.

Multiple videos, including Portillo's security footage and ones circulating social media, were reviewed by police throughout the process.

The initial investigation concluded June 1 and has been submitted to the Kendall County State's Attorney's Office for review.