Driver struck shopper in bakery section at Westwood Boulevard store
February 05, 2026 | Westwood, CA
A 28-year-old man lost his life in a devastating incident when a vehicle crashed into a grocery store in Westwood. Authorities reported that Zih Dao was inside the 99 Ranch Market at Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue around 12:11 p.m. on Feb. 5.
The crash, caused by a 92-year-old female driver, also claimed the lives of two store employees. Officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.
Zih Dao, 28, was killed after a vehicle crashed into a market bakery where Dao was shopping at Rochester Avenue and Westwood Boulevard.
What Happened in the Crash?
Zih Dao was browsing the bakery area when the vehicle suddenly entered the store. The crash resulted in fatal injuries to Dao and two employees. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but the victims could not be saved. The driver sustained minor injuries and was treated at a local hospital.
- Victim: Zih Dao, 28, of Westwood
- Location: 99 Ranch Market, Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue, Westwood, CA
- Date and Time: Feb. 5, approximately 12:11 p.m.
- Driver: 92-year-old woman
- Additional Fatalities: Two Ranch Market employees
- Status: Investigation ongoing by local police
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Crashes involving vehicles entering pedestrian areas like stores often stem from driver errors, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Common factors include confusing the accelerator with the brake, medical emergencies, or impairment.
Investigators are reviewing the driver's medical history and driving record to determine contributing elements. Such collisions underscore the need for thorough examinations to understand root causes.
Common Causes of Vehicle-Pedestrian Crashes |
Percentage (NHTSA Data, 2022) |
Source |
|---|
Driver Error (e.g., Accelerator Mix-up) |
94% |
NHTSA |
Medical Emergency |
2% |
NHTSA |
Impairment (Alcohol/Drugs) |
3% |
NHTSA |
Other (Distracted Driving, etc.) |
1% |
NHTSA |
Legal Insights
National legal analysts emphasize the importance of independent investigations in motor vehicle crashes to support affected families.
“In cases such as this, it is imperative to have an independent investigation conducted as soon as possible to preserve evidence for a victim’s grieving family,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal and a national analyst with Newsline. “In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can collect the proper evidence to help prove that a driver’s actions were reckless, which requires a variety of resources. A lawyer can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and text records of the liable party. Serving as an advocate, an attorney will help compassionately guide a family during this difficult time, while vigorously protecting their legal rights and best interests.”
- Prompt independent investigations preserve critical evidence like surveillance footage and witness statements.
- Legal representation helps analyze driver history and potential recklessness.
- Attorneys provide compassionate support while safeguarding rights in wrongful death scenarios.
Potential for Wrongful Death Claims
Families of those killed in such incidents, including Zih Dao's relatives, may pursue wrongful death claims. These can cover losses like companionship, emotional distress, and suffering.
“We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their best interests are taken care of. Relatives of wrongful death victims are entitled to seek damages for the loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident.”
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Have you experienced a similar accident and need guidance? Contact national legal analyst Candice Bond at Newsline for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).