Matteo Guidicelli says SUV driver 'panicked, blacked out' in restaurant accident

Matteo Guidicelli detailed the accident that took place in his family restaurant in Alabang and the damage it caused.

In an Instagram reel posted on Monday, Feb. 9, the entrepreneur shared how the vehicle entered and rammed into Da Gianni Cucina Italiana the day prior.

"At around 4 p.m., a vehicle just from Alabang Westgate Filinvest just went straight and went into our al fresco area here in Da Gianni," he said.

Guidicelli then took viewers to the section and said it was fortunate that the restaurant had no more diners by the time of the incident. Several tables and chairs, however, were destroyed.

"We're very thankful that there were no more guests here around because at 12 to around 2 p.m. We're full house outside, and we're very blessed that God was with us, that wala nang tao when this happened," he said.

Guidicelli then proceeded to the stock room, which had two of his staff sleeping before they were hit by the vehicle. He said they are in good condition and are currently receiving medical attention.

He also checked on the car involved, which is still at the crash site. He lauded the driver's effort to put the car in "park" to ensure the vehicle was left in a stationary position before the incident.

"The first thing I checked when I came in, I asked the guard and I tried to look at the gearbox if it was still in drive or park," he shared. "So it was already in park—she had the presence of mind."

He also debunked speculations that the driver was drunk or high on illegal drugs when the incident happened.

"She was a very innocent beautiful lady that just panicked, blacked out, and pressed on the gas instead of the brakes. So that's what happened," he said.

Guidicelli added that the restaurant remains in business while they are waiting for the damages to be assessed. According to him, they're planning to clear everything by Valentine's Day.

In the caption of his post, Guidicelli reminded his followers to always be aware of their surroundings. "Be safe, and keep your family safe. This was an incident involving a very innocent woman who panicked and pressed the gas instead of the brakes. It can happen to anyone, anywhere, anytime," he wrote.

Da Gianni Cucina Italiana Alabang has been open since 2018.