Driver veered into grocery store and struck multiple people at Ranch Market
February 05, 2026 | Westwood, CA
A tragic accident unfolded at the Ranch Market Grocery Store in Westwood, California, where 52-year-old Leonel Mateo lost his life after being struck by a vehicle that plowed into the building.
Leonel Mateo, 52, was killed when a vehicle crashed into the 99 Ranch Market at Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue.
The Los Angeles Police Department reported that the incident occurred around 12:11 p.m. on Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue. An unidentified 92-year-old woman was behind the wheel when her car veered off the road and crashed through the store's entrance.
What Happened in the Crash?
Leonel Mateo, originally from Mexico and a devoted father of two, was shopping inside the store when the vehicle struck him. Two other individuals also perished in the chaos, bringing the total fatalities to three.
- Date and Time: Feb. 5, approximately 12:11 p.m.
- Location: Ranch Market Grocery Store, Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue, Westwood, CA
- Vehicle Involved: Sedan driven by a 92-year-old woman
- Fatalities: Leonel Mateo, 52, two others unidentified
- Injuries: Four people hospitalized, including two 35-year-old men in critical condition and two others, ages 37 and 38, in fair condition
Authorities do not suspect foul play and are examining whether a medical emergency contributed to the driver losing control.
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Crashes involving vehicles entering pedestrian areas like stores often stem from driver error, health issues, or environmental factors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury and death in the U.S., with over 40,000 fatalities annually.
Common Causes of Vehicle-Pedestrian Crashes |
Statistics (Source: CDC and NHTSA) |
|---|
Driver Distraction |
25% of incidents |
Medical Emergencies |
10-15% of elderly driver crashes |
Failure to Yield |
20% of pedestrian fatalities |
Speeding or Reckless Driving |
30% of overall crash deaths |
The 99 Ranch Market issued a statement expressing profound sorrow: "We are devastated by this heartbreaking accident and are cooperating fully with authorities. Our thoughts are with all those affected."
Legal Insights
National legal analyst Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, stresses the value of thorough investigations in such motor vehicle incidents.
“In cases such as this, alongside official efforts, it's crucial for families to engage an independent review. This includes re-interviewing witnesses, scrutinizing surveillance footage, and securing relevant records promptly to preserve evidence,” Bond noted.
Key takeaways from the analysis:
- Time-sensitive evidence collection is essential in crash investigations.
- Independent attorneys can uncover details missed in standard reports.
- Families should act quickly to protect their legal options.
For wrongful death matters, Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, highlights support for affected relatives.
“Navigating the aftermath of a catastrophic accident demands protecting family rights. A dedicated lawyer ensures updates from investigations and pursues compensation for losses like companionship and emotional distress,” Formica explained.
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If you or a family member has been affected by a similar incident, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free consultation. Use the contact information provided on this page.
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