Matt Verde, the co-founder of Neat Kitchen and Bar with locations in Westmont and Oswego, has died after being hit by a car Thursday night.

Verde’s death occurred on Sunday, November 24th, 2024, after a few days in the hospital on life support. “At 4:28pm heaven gained another angel, Matthew Verde, owner of Neat Kitchen + Bar was called to be with the Lord. We are devastated by this ending but know that Matt’s work is not done as he watches over all of us from Heaven,” a GoFundMe set up for him revealed.

The car accident that led to Matt Verde’s death occurred on Thursday, November 21st, 2024 while he was walking in front of the Meijer store on Route 34 in Oswego.

Oswego Police were called to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash at about 9:39 p.m. Nov. 21.

According to a preliminary investigation from Oswego PD, Verde was trying to cross the access road in front of the Meijer store at 2700 Route 34 in Oswego when he was struck by a Toyota Prius driven by a 17-year-old girl.

He sustained life-threatening injuries in the crash and was transported to hospital where he was placed on life-support.

The driver meanwhile, was not injured. The crash remains under investigation.

In the wake of his injury, the GoFundMe fundraiser was started for Matt Verde. “As many of you know, our dear friend and fellow restaurateur, Matt Verde from Neat Kitchen + Bar, was struck by a vehicle and sustained significant injuries, including head trauma, and is currently on life support,” Carrie Fleck of Westmont IL, wrote on the platform.

“As the family navigates through these difficult times, we ask you to continue to support both Neat Kitchen + Bar locations to allow for continued income for the family. In addition, we have created this GoFundMe by the request of so many and with the approval from the family.” Carrie added.

The fundraiser raised over $57,000 on its initial goal of $50,000. Tragically, Matt passed away on November 24th.

Matt and lifelong friend John Taylor founded the Neat Kitchen and Bar in Westmont after starting their respective careers in the restaurant industry.