Westwood is reeling after a devastating and unexpected tragedy that unfolded Thursday afternoon at the 99 Ranch Market, where three people were killed when a vehicle crashed into the grocery store. Among the victims was Deris Renoj, a 42-year-old woman who died at the scene, according to confirmation from the Los Angeles County Medical Examinerโs Office.
The fatal incident occurred at approximately 12:11 p.m. at the intersection of Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue, when a silver Mercedes sedan driven by a 92-year-old woman plowed into the bakery area of the supermarket. In addition to Renoj, two menโages 30 and 55โalso lost their lives. Their identities have not yet been released as authorities continue notifying their families.
The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that six other people were injured in the crash. Four were transported to nearby hospitals, including two victims listed in critical condition. Store management confirmed that two of the individuals killed were employees, while the third was a customer, though it remains unclear whether Renoj was shopping or working at the time of the incident.
Authorities have classified the crash as an accident. Investigators stated that the elderly driver is cooperating fully, and police are examining whether pedal misapplicationโpressing the accelerator instead of the brakeโmay have contributed. No final determination has yet been made regarding the cause.
