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Brain injuries caused by oysters from Illinois restaurant, lawsuit claims
By Alonzo SmallPatrick Elwood,
3 hours agoOAK BROOK, Ill. (WGN) – A lawsuit filed on behalf of a retired Illinois firefighter and Marine veteran describes how he allegedly suffered catastrophic brain injuries after eating raw oysters at a restaurant near Chicago.
The suit claims 44-year-old Joe Belgio, who served as a firefighter in Cicero, was exposed to multiple foodborne pathogens at Gibson’s Bar and Steakhouse in Oak Brook.
Belgio suffered cardiac arrest, spent months in a coma, and now has permanent brain injuries, according to attorney Karen Arenas. His family says he requires around-the-clock care.
“But even at his weakest, Joe remains the strongest man I’ve ever known,” said a visibly emotional Melanie Stayer, Belgio’s fiancée. “Joe has shown again and again that he is still here and that he is not finished.”
Add Arenas: “This is not a minor stomach bug case. This is a catastrophic injury case involving permanent brain damage and lifelong disabilities.”
Gibsons released a statement saying they take food safety extremely seriously, but added that there have been no other reported cases of illness related to oysters:
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.The impact of Mr. Belgio’s cardiac event is tragic. We recognize the seriousness of what he is facing and wish him a full recovery.
We take food safety extremely seriously, and providing a superior and safe dining experience is always our primary focus.
There have been no other reported cases of illness. Based on the facts and our internal investigation, there is no evidence to suggest that our establishment caused his health condition. We are confident that a fair and thorough legal process will agree with this conclusion.”
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