Tragedy struck the Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles on Thursday afternoon when a car crashed into a supermarket, resulting in the deaths of at least three individuals and injuring six others, according to local authorities.
The incident took place shortly after noon at the 99 Ranch Market located in the 1300 block of Westwood Boulevard. Aerial footage captured the vehicle lodged inside the store, highlighting the severity of the crash.
Fire department officials confirmed that three victims—a 55-year-old man, a 42-year-old woman, and a 30-year-old man—were pronounced dead at the scene. The supermarket later revealed that the deceased included two employees and a customer. In light of the tragedy, the store announced it would remain closed for the foreseeable future.
In a heartfelt statement, a spokesperson for 99 Ranch Market expressed condolences to the families and colleagues of the victims, stating, “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. Our focus remains on supporting our employees and their families during this profoundly difficult time.”
Additionally, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that two 35-year-old men were hospitalized in critical condition, while two others—a 38-year-old and a 37-year-old—were taken to the hospital in fair condition.
Authorities from the Los Angeles Police Department indicated that the driver, a woman estimated to be in her 70s, had unintentionally struck a bicyclist just a block away from the supermarket prior to the crash. Both the bicyclist and the driver declined medical treatment at the scene.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass extended her sympathies to the victims and their families, stating, “My heart is with the victims, their families, and all who were impacted by the deadly crash at the 99 Ranch Market in Westwood this afternoon. I want to thank our first responders who acted immediately to respond to this emergency and render critical aid.”
LAFD Captain Erik Scott noted that the driver is cooperating with investigators, who are treating the incident as an “accidental traffic collision.” There were no additional passengers in the vehicle at the time of the incident.
Following the crash, the supermarket was briefly tagged for safety inspections; however, inspectors later determined that the building remained stable. Mayor Bass mentioned that her crisis response team would be providing support and resources to those affected by the incident.
