Limestone blocks crashed off a building in Winnetka's Hubbard Woods neighborhood Thursday, Aug. 27, tearing down Spirit Elephant restaurant's awning and shattering multiple front windows on one of the North Shore's busiest commercial corridors.

No one was injured.

The collapse at 924 Green Bay Road happened between 3:30 and 4 p.m., according to The Record North Shore, which first reported the incident. Spirit Elephant was closed at the time. On Thursdays, the restaurant opens at 4:30 p.m.

The limestone blocks fell from roughly 15 to 20 feet above the sidewalk. They ripped a section of the awning off the building's front and sent shattered glass across the entrance area.

The Village of Winnetka confirmed on Facebook that no one was hurt and that cleanup was underway. Officials closed southbound Green Bay Road in Hubbard Woods while crews cleared debris. The road has since reopened.

Village response

Scott Mangum, Winnetka's community development director, said a structural engineer working for the property owner removed the facade's remaining limestone blocks Thursday evening. Village officials said portions of the facade were being taken down to ensure the area is safe, CBS News Chicago reported.

The cause of the collapse remains under investigation, according to village officials. No timeline for an inspection report or a determination of cause has been announced.

Restaurant closed through Saturday morning

Spirit Elephant closed for the rest of Thursday and announced on social media it would also close Friday night and Saturday morning. The restaurant directed customers to check its website for reopening updates.

@spiritelephantrestaurant: "We are so grateful no one got hurt! Thank you so much for all the supportive messages! …"

Green Bay Road between Elm Street and Gage Street in Hubbard Woods carries heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic, particularly during evening dining hours. The collapse happened during a window when foot traffic along the block would have been lighter than usual, with Spirit Elephant not yet open and the afternoon commute still building.

The building's age, ownership, and maintenance history have not been publicly disclosed. Residents with questions about the investigation can contact the Winnetka Community Development Department.