Westwood Tragedy: Car Plunges Into 99 Ranch Market, Killing Three
A devastating incident occurred in Westwood, Los Angeles. A car crashed into a 99 Ranch Market on February 5, 2026. This tragic event resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries.
Details of the Crash
The crash happened around 12:11 p.m.. The location was Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue. A 92-year-old female driver was involved. She was driving a silver Mercedes sedan.
The driver first struck a bicyclist. This collision occurred about a block away from the market. The driver then lost control of her vehicle. Subsequently, she swerved into the 99 Ranch Market. The car crashed through the store’s front windows.
Fatalities and Injuries
Tragically, three people died at the scene. The deceased were identified as Deris Renoj, aged 42, a 55-year-old man, and a 30-year-old man. Two of the victims were employees. The third was a customer. It is currently unclear if Renoj was an employee or a customer.
Furthermore, several others sustained injuries. Four people were hospitalized. Two of these individuals were 35-year-old men in critical condition. Two other men, aged 37 and 38, had minor injuries.
The driver and the bicyclist both declined medical treatment. They were evaluated at the scene.
Investigation and Cause
Authorities are investigating the incident. The Los Angeles Police Department is leading the investigation. They currently do not believe the crash was intentional. Investigators are exploring potential causes. One possibility is a medical emergency. The driver is cooperating with investigators.
Community Impact and Response
The 99 Ranch Market sustained damage. However, inspectors determined the building was structurally sound. The market has since closed temporarily. Flowers have been placed at the scene. This serves as a memorial for the victims.
Mayor Karen Bass expressed her condolences. She stated her heart is with the victims and their families. A crisis response team was dispatched to offer support. Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky is also monitoring the situation.
Broader Context
This event has sparked discussions about elderly drivers. California law requires drivers 70 and older to renew licenses in person every five years. They must pass a vision test. The DMV can require additional testing for safety concerns. Safety experts noted that driving skill, not just age, is crucial.
This incident highlights ongoing traffic safety concerns in the Westwood area. The community in Los Angeles mourns the loss of life. They also offer support to those injured and affected. The focus now is on supporting the victims’ families and the market’s employees. This sad news is a stark reminder of unexpected dangers. It underscores the importance of vigilance on our roads. This report is part of ongoing Los Angeles News coverage.
