Marine veteran, 44, 'left with severe brain damage after eating oysters at restaurant'
A marine veteran who ate raw oysters at a restaurant in Chicago became severely ill soon after.
Joe Belgio's lawyers have alleged that he contracted pathogens and suffered permanent brain damage after eating at Gibson’s Bar and Steakhouse in Oak Brook in June 2025 with his fiancée Melanie Stayer and their daughter.
The lawsuit filed in Cook County Court states that the 44-year-old suffered a severe cardiac arrest on 3 July and his attorney Scott O'Sullivan told ABC7 Chicago that he went eight minutes without oxygen before he was resuscitated.
Belgio spent months in a coma with an anoxic brain injury, leaving hum mentally disabled with around-the-clock care.
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According to the lawsuit, doctors 'determined to a reasonable degree of medical certainty' that he contracted the pathogens which caused his illness by eating the restaurant's oysters.
Gibsons Restaurant Group say there is 'no evidence to suggest that our establishment caused his health condition'.
In a statement shared with FOX21, they said: "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."
According to post from 5 February, Belgio has been receiving inpatient rehabilitation at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago.
At the time of writing, $92,820 has been raised of a $150,000 target, hoping to 'help ease the growing costs associated with Joe’s ongoing care'.
"Joe has always been a man dedicated to service—an ex-Marine and firefighter who has devoted his life to protecting others and serving his country," family members said via GoFundMe.
"He completed a courageous tour of duty in Iraq, demonstrating unwavering loyalty and heart every step of the way. Joe has always been the first to lend a hand when help is needed.
"He is a cherished father, fiancé, son, brother, and friend. Joe and Melanie are the proud parents of a beautiful seven-month-old baby girl, Carmela.
"Being her dad brings him immense joy, and he now needs our collective support to ensure a bright future for her and his family."
LADbible Group has contacted Gibson’s Bar and Steakhouse for further comment.
Anish Vij