Westwood, Los Angeles – February 5, 2026 | Ayuda California News
Three people were killed, and several others were injured Thursday afternoon after a vehicle crashed into a 99 Ranch Market supermarket in the Westwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, according to local authorities.
The tragic car crash occurred at approximately 12:11 p.m. at the intersection of Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue, when a silver Mercedes-Benz sedan lost control, struck a bicyclist, and then traveled roughly one block before crashing into the supermarket, trapping multiple people inside.
Victims and Injuries
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD):
- Three people were pronounced dead at the scene:
- Two men, ages 30 and 55
- One woman, age 42
- Four people were hospitalized:
- Two men, ages 35, in critical condition
- Two men, ages 37 and 38, with minor injuries
- The bicyclist who was struck and the driver, an elderly woman, both declined hospital transport
Authorities stated that the crash does not appear to have been intentional. Investigators are examining whether the driver may have suffered a medical emergency before losing control of the vehicle.
Scene of Chaos and Shock
Witnesses described panic inside and outside the supermarket as customers and employees fled through smoke and debris. Bystanders attempted to assist victims trapped beneath the vehicle before emergency crews arrived.
City and state officials expressed condolences, and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass confirmed that a crisis response team was deployed to support victims and their families.
The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety inspected the structure and determined there is no ongoing structural risk, though the store sustained significant damage.
Legal Considerations: What Rights Do Victims and Families Have?
While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, California law allows for civil liability analysis, even when a collision may involve a medical emergency.
Applicable California Laws
General Negligence — Civil Code §1714
This law establishes that individuals are responsible for harm caused by a lack of reasonable care.
If a driver knew—or should have known—that a medical condition could impair their ability to drive, civil liability may still apply.
Basic Speed Law — Vehicle Code §22350
Requires drivers to operate vehicles at a speed reasonable for conditions, including commercial and pedestrian-heavy areas.
➡️ Applies even when a driver is not exceeding the posted speed limit.
Wrongful Death Claims — Code of Civil Procedure §§377.60–377.61
Allows immediate family members to seek compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of love, companionship, and guidance
Survival Actions — Code of Civil Procedure §377.30
If any victim suffered injuries before death, heirs may recover damages the victim could have claimed prior to passing.
Non-Economic Damages — Civil Code §1431.2
Includes pain, suffering, and emotional distress experienced by surviving victims.
Potential Compensation
Depending on the investigation’s findings, victims and families may have the right to pursue:
✔️ Personal injury claims
✔️ Wrongful death lawsuits
✔️ Compensation for medical and funeral expenses
✔️ Lost income and financial support
✔️ Emotional distress and loss of companionship
Ayuda California: Legal Support When the Unthinkable Happens
At Ayuda California, we understand that tragedies like this change lives in seconds. Our mission is to support affected families with clear information, compassion, and legal guidance in Spanish.
We offer:
✔️ Free, confidential legal consultations
✔️ Liability analysis in complex accident cases
✔️ Support regardless of immigration status
📞 Call us today for a free consultation.
When tragedy strikes your community, you don’t have to face it alone.
