Minivan Plows Through Side of Pasadena Restaurant; DUI Suspected

A minivan crashed through the side of a restaurant at Lake Avenue and Boylston Street in Pasadena on Jan. 11, 2021. (Credit: Pasadena Fire Department)

[UPDATED] A Pasadena man is accused of driving under the influence of methamphetamine after plowing a minivan through the side of a vegetarian restaurant in Pasadena late Thursday, coming to rest with its front end inside the kitchen, authorities said.

The crash took place about 6:45 p.m. at The Total Vegetarian, at the northwest corner of Lake Avenue and Boylston Street, according to Pasadena police and fire officials.

The driver was treated for minor injuries, city spokeswoman Lisa Derderian said.

The restaurant was open for business at the time, but no injuries were reported within, police Lt. Anthony Burgess said.

The driver, identified as 29-year-old John Mitchell of Pasadena, admitted to smoking methamphetamine “just prior” to the crash, Burgess said. The drug was also found inside the van.

Information regarding Mitchell’s bail and initial court appearance was not available Friday morning.