Executive Summary
- The 99 Ranch Market in Westwood reopens Wednesday, Feb. 11, following a fatal crash on Feb. 5.
- Three people were killed and six injured when a 92-year-old driver crashed into the store.
- Victims were identified as Deris Renoj (42), Zih Dao (28), and Leonel Mateo (52).
- The driver was involved in a separate collision with a bicyclist moments before the fatal crash.
- Management is coordinating with authorities and offering support to affected employees.
The 99 Ranch Market in West Los Angeles is scheduled to reopen its doors on Wednesday, marking the resumption of business less than a week after a vehicle crashed into the storefront, resulting in three fatalities and six injuries. Management for the Westwood grocery store confirmed the reopening in a statement, noting that coordination with local agencies had been completed to ensure the facility was safe for employees and the public.
The fatal incident occurred on Thursday, February 5, at approximately 12:11 p.m., when a sedan driven by a 92-year-old motorist veered off the road and through the glass facade of the building located at the intersection of Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner identified the three deceased victims as 42-year-old Deris Renoj, 28-year-old Zih Dao, and 52-year-old Leonel Mateo. Six others sustained injuries in the collision.
In a media release, store officials acknowledged the difficulty of the transition, stating that the reopening “may be an emotional moment for many” and emphasizing their intent to approach the day with “care and sensitivity.” The company expressed continued condolences to the families of the victims and the broader community, while affirming their commitment to supporting employees as they return to work.
Video footage recovered from the scene depicts the vehicle moving toward the sidewalk before impacting the store. According to investigators, the elderly driver had struck a bicyclist approximately one block away shortly before crashing into the market. The bicyclist reportedly declined medical transport. Law enforcement officials have noted that the driver, who has not been publicly identified, is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. The Los Angeles Fire Department described the event as appearing to be “an unfortunate accident.”
Investigative Scope & Public Safety Implications
While preliminary assessments by first responders suggest the crash was unintentional, the investigation will likely focus on the driver’s capacity and the sequence of events connecting the two collisions. Traffic safety analysts note that incidents involving elderly drivers often prompt reviews of licensing renewal protocols and medical reporting standards. Furthermore, the structural vulnerability of the storefront may lead to discussions regarding the installation of bollards or similar protective barriers in high-traffic commercial zones to prevent vehicular intrusions. Authorities continue to review evidence to determine the precise cause of the loss of control.
