OLD FORGE -- Cafe Rinaldi is a popular spot in Old Forge.
After a terrifying crash Tuesday night, workers are now trying to get the place back up and running and ready for hungry customers.
"This could have been so much more tragic and I just thank God that nobody was hurt. No patrons, no customers, none of my staff, no one walking on the street, and again even the gentleman driving. It's just a blessing and really I just thank God that no one even had a scratch," said co-owner Russ Rinaldi.
Police said a box truck slammed into two cars on South Main Street before plowing into Cafe Rinaldi, narrowly missing two customers who had paid the bill just minutes earlier. Debris nearly hit a busboy.
The truck driver, John Elliott of Old Forge, was arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence.
Folks at other restaurants in Old Forge said they cannot believe what happened and while they are thankful no one was hurt, they said losing a day of business during this time of year is tough.
"It's a tight knit community and I'm gonna give Mr. Rinaldi a call and see if I can help him out with anything at all. If he needs kitchen space, or storage space, or anything, I know that they would do it for me," said James Reese of nearby Fannuci's Ristorante.
The holiday season is a busy one in the restaurant business, with holiday parties and more crowds.
"This time of year, it's just devastating. I'm sure they have parties booked. This is when you make your money in December. It was a tough October and November for just about everybody in the area, and now's the time when they can make some money and it's just unfortunate it happened," added Reese.
Rinaldi said when the doors do reopen, he may have fewer tables inside the restaurant because of the damage. He hopes to be open again in time for the dinner crowd Thursday night.
