Los Angeles, California – A devastating car crash occurred Thursday afternoon. It happened at a 99 Ranch Market in Westwood. Three people lost their lives. Several others sustained injuries. This news shakes the Los Angeles community. The incident unfolded around 12:11 p.m. on February 5, 2026. A vehicle plowed into the store. It entered the bakery section. Many shoppers were present. The crash is under investigation. Authorities are treating it as an accident. However, the loss of life is immense. This event brings sorrow to the city.
The Tragedy Unfolds
A silver sedan was involved. It first struck a bicyclist. This happened about a block from the market. The vehicle then continued its path. It swerved into the 99 Ranch Market. The car smashed through the front windows. It came to rest inside the store. Witnesses described a sudden, loud noise. Emergency services arrived quickly. Firefighters found victims trapped. They worked to free people. The scene was one of chaos and distress. Many bystanders watched in shock. The area was quickly secured. It became a focal point for this Los Angeles news.
Victims and Injuries
Tragically, three individuals died at the scene. They were pronounced dead shortly after the crash. The victims were identified as two men and one woman. One man was 55 years old. Another was 30 years old. The woman was 42 years old. The 99 Ranch Market confirmed the deceased. They stated two were employees. The third victim was a customer. They were all inside the bakery section. Many others were hurt. Four patients required hospital transport. Two men, both 35, were in critical condition. Two other men, aged 37 and 38, had minor injuries. In total, at least six people were injured. Some victims declined medical treatment. The bicyclist also refused transport. The driver also did not go to the hospital. The community mourns these profound losses.
The Driver and Investigation
Authorities identified the driver. She is an elderly woman. Sources indicate she may be 92 years old. She was reportedly driving a Toyota Prius. Investigators believe she unintentionally lost control. The crash is not considered intentional. This is a key detail in the ongoing probe. Officials are exploring all possibilities. A medical emergency is a strong consideration. The driver is cooperating with police. She is also undergoing a medical evaluation. The investigation aims to understand the exact cause. This includes reviewing the driver’s health. The LAPD is leading the investigation. They are working to piece together events. The Los Angeles Police Department seeks clarity. The circumstances remain under scrutiny.
Official Responses and Community Impact
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass reacted swiftly. She expressed deep sorrow. “My heart is with the victims,” she stated. She also thanked first responders. Their actions were critical. Mayor Bass confirmed a crisis response team was dispatched. They offered support to those affected. The Mayor’s Office Crisis Response Team provided resources. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) also commented. LAFD Captain Erik Scott detailed the scene. He described it as an “unfortunate accident.” The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety assessed the structure. They determined it was stable. The 99 Ranch Market is a popular Asian supermarket chain. It has many locations across California. The store itself suffered damage. It primarily affected the front windows. The market will remain closed for now. A company spokesperson shared their grief. They offered condolences to families. This incident impacts many lives. It highlights the vulnerability of public spaces. The Westwood neighborhood is home to UCLA. However, no university students were involved. This tragic event has deeply affected Los Angeles.
Ongoing Investigation
The Los Angeles Police Department continues its work. They are gathering evidence. The investigation seeks to prevent future tragedies. This incident serves as a stark reminder. It underscores the need for road safety. Every life lost is a tragedy. The community hopes for healing. Further updates will be featured as they emerge. The investigation is ongoing. Officials ask the public to avoid the area. This allows investigators to work unimpeded. The focus remains on supporting victims’ families. The city is coming together. It grieves for those lost. It supports those recovering. The story will continue to develop.
