3 dead after car slams into grocery store in Westwood – NBC Los Angeles

Three people are dead, and four others are injured after a car, driven by an elderly woman, crashed into a grocery store in Westwood, blocks from UCLA, fire officials said Thursday.

The incident was reported at around 12:10 p.m. at the 99 Ranch Market grocery store on Westwood Boulevard near Rochester Avenue.

Two of the people, who were declared dead at the scene, were outside the market when they were hit by the car, according to Lyndsey Lantz from the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) said.

Among the injured, two patients are in serious condition while two others have minor injuries, LAFD Cpt. Erik Scott said.

None of the victims were UCLA students, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

Despite some misinformation that suggested the crash was intentional, Scott said a preliminary investigation suggests that it was an accident. He said as the driver, in her 70s, was trying to avoid striking a bicyclist, she may have driven her silver Prius into the grocery store.

Law enforcement sources confirmed to NBC4 Investigates that drugs and alcohol were ruled out as the cause of the collision. The LAPD also said it was not an intentional collision.

The bicyclist was struck, but his or her condition was not immediately known. Scott said the elderly driver remained on the scene and cooperated with the investigation.

The fire department also said when crews rushed to the scene, several people were trapped under car and had to be extricated.

While the building’s glass door and front side are damaged, the structure was not compromised, according to Scott. The building was yellow-tagged.

The incident occurred during lunch time as people were out in the area.

“I just heard a loud bang,” Sixto, who said he shops at the grocery store, said, adding “it’s a very dangerous stretch of road,” where the incident happened. “I feel like there should definitely be more, I guess, enforcement on speed limits here.”

Amy Fleschert, a neighbor also said speeding has been a big issue for pedestrians in the area.

“It gave me the chills – this loud noise like a wreck,” she said.

Officials from 99 Ranch Market said they are working closely with authorities as the investigation continued.

“We are heartbroken by this situation. Our deepest condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, and we are holding everyone affected, customers, team members, and the broader community in our thoughts during this tough time,” a representative from the grocery chain said in a statement.

LA Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky, who represents the Westwood neighborhood, said her team is closely monitoring developments.

“My heart is with those injured and with the families of those who lost their lives. Thank you to the first responders on scene for their swift action,” Yaroslavsky, said.