Car crashes into Northeast Philadelphia deli

NORTHEAST PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A car crashed into the front of a Northeast Philadelphia deli and authorities say this isn't the first time this has happened at the same location.

The accident happened around 4:00 p.m. Wednesday at Steve Stein's Famous Deli & Restaurant in Grant Plaza at Grant and Welsh streets.

Investigators say an 86-year-old man thought he put his 2011 Toyota Prius in reverse but instead it went forward.

That's when the driver panicked and hit the gas pedal instead of the brake and crashed right through the front of the deli.

"The deli was opened for business at the time. There were approximately 20 people inside, customers as well as employees however fortunately, none of these individuals were injured," said Chief Inspector Scott Small, Philadelphia Police.

The driver managed to get out of the car on his own and appeared somewhat dazed. He was taken to Aria-Torresdale Hospital for evaluation, treated and released.

"It could have been a lot worse due to the fact that the 2011 Prius drove completely through the front double doors and ended up against the rear counter of this deli," said Chief Inspector Small.

Authorities say that is nothing short of a miracle.

"It's just amazing how things happen," said Mark Shirer.

As it turns out, this is the second time this year that a motorist has accidently driver their vehicle into the deli.

After the first incident, the owner put up two large concrete-filled metal poles to prevent any more vehicles from driving through.

However the driver in Wednesday's incident managed to find the only open parking space where there are no poles and that's when the crash occurred.

Late Wednesday night, police say they're looking into the possibility of suspending the 86-year-old's driving privileges.