Diner still open after hit and run crash

OAKLAND PARK, Fla. (WSVN) -- Despite a strike by a hit and run driver overnight that left the front door to a diner blocked, the restaurant remains open for business.

The Broward Sheriff's Office is still searching for the driver and passenger who fled the scene, late Monday night. Meanwhile, crews are still clearing the debris from the front of the Peter Pan diner, which has been in business for over 30 years. "No, we're not closed," said Peter Kourkoumelis, the restaurant's owner. "We're open. We're gonna put a sign up: 'We're Open.'"

Adding insult to injury, Kourkoumelis' sport utility vehicle was also left in ruin after the restaurant's front canopy collapsed. A rented truck crashed into the overhang, after the driver misjudged the structure's height. It fell on the back of the SUV. Meanwhile, the driver and one passenger left the crumpled Penske truck at the scene and fled the scene on foot.

A second passenger in the vehicle stayed on the scene and has cooperated with investigators. Patrons at the diner said the truck seemed to come in fast, and the driver may have been drunk. Deputies said they think they know who they are looking for, as driver left is wallet in the truck, so it will only be a matter of time until police catch up with him.

Meanwhile, patrons can still access Peter Pan's back entrance to enjoy a meal inside. "After 32 years, you have to be positive," said Kourkoumelis. "Thanks to everybody, thanks to my customers, thanks to the city, we got no problems."

Deputies are still searching for those who took off after the crash.

If you have any information on this hit and run, call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward.

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