Understanding the 99 Ranch Market Incident: Details on the Victims and the Driver Involved
Three Dead, Six Injured in Westwood Grocery Store Crash
LOS ANGELES – A tragic incident unfolded Thursday afternoon when a silver Mercedes sped into a 99 Ranch Market in Westwood, resulting in three fatalities and several injuries. The crash occurred at approximately 12:11 p.m. near the intersection of Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue.
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, the sedan crashed through multiple windows into the bakery section of the store, where customers were present. Preliminary reports indicate that prior to the collision, the vehicle struck a bicyclist about a block away. Fire crews swiftly initiated triage and requested additional resources for patient care and transport.
Of the nine individuals involved, three were pronounced dead at the scene inside the bakery. Four others sustained injuries and were taken to local hospitals. Among the injured, two men, both 35 years old, are in critical condition, while two others, aged 38 and 37, are described as being in fair condition. The driver, identified as a 92-year-old woman, and the bicyclist declined hospital transport after evaluation.
The victims have been identified as a 55-year-old man, a 42-year-old named Deris Renjo, and a 30-year-old man. Authorities confirmed that the deceased included two 99 Ranch Market employees and a customer. In a statement released Thursday night, the grocery chain expressed their sorrow: "We are heartbroken by this loss. Our deepest condolences are with the families, loved ones, and colleagues of our team members who lost their lives, as well as with the family of the customer who passed away."
Authorities have indicated that the investigation does not view the crash as an intentional act. Investigators are currently exploring whether a medical emergency may have contributed to the driver’s loss of control.
The Los Angeles Police Department continues its investigation and has promised to release further details as they become available.
