Westwood 99 Ranch Market reopens following deadly car crash
Video shows car plowing in 99 Ranch Market
New surveillance video shows a car crashing into a 99 Ranch Market in Westwood. Three people were killed.
LOS ANGELES - The 99 Ranch Market in Westwood is resuming operations on Wednesday, less than a week after a vehicle plowed into the building, killing three people and injuring six others.
What we know:
The collision happened just after noon on Thursday, Feb. 5 at the intersection of South Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue.
A 92-year-old woman driving a Mercedes sedan struck a bicyclist and then accelerated into the supermarket’s bakery, an investigation revealed.
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner's Office identified the victims as Zih Dao, 28; Deris Renjo, 42; and Leonel Mateo, 52. Two of these victims were employees of the market.
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While the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety yellow-tagged the site due to the damage, inspectors confirmed the structure remains stable.
Authorities have characterized the event as a "tragic accident" rather than an intentional act.
What they're saying:
Store officials released a statement regarding the decision to return to business: "Our hearts remain with everyone affected by the tragic incident at our Westwood store: the families, loved ones, colleagues, and community members grieving this loss."
Regarding the reopening, the statement continued: "In coordination with the appropriate agencies, our Westwood store will reopen on Wednesday, February 11. We recognize this may be an emotional moment for many, and we will approach reopening with care and sensitivity."
What we don't know:
It remains unclear if the 92-year-old driver will face any future charges, as no citations or arrests were made at the scene.
Additionally, the current medical status of the four individuals transported to the hospital—two of whom were in critical condition—has not been updated by officials.
What's next:
As the store reopens, 99 Ranch Market has stated their focus will remain on supporting the families of the victims and their staff while continuing to cooperate with the ongoing investigation by the LAPD.
The Source: This report is based on previous FOX 11 reports, official statements from the 99 Ranch Market corporate office, the Los Angeles Fire Department, and victim identification records provided by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office.Details regarding the building's safety status were verified through the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety.