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Vehicle Crashes Into Westwood Market After Avoiding Cyclist, Leaving Three Dead and Several Injured
Westwood, CA – The 3 victims killed after a car crashed into a 99 Ranch Market have been identified as Zih Dao, 28, Deris Renoj, 42, and Leonel Mateo, 52.
According to authorities, the accident happened around 12:11 p.m. at the 99 Ranch Market located at South Westwood Boulevard and Rochester Avenue.
Authorities said a southbound silver sedan struck a bicyclist roughly a block from the store. The driver then lost control, mounted the sidewalk, and smashed through the market’s glass frontage before coming to rest in the bakery area.
Emergency crews arrived to find a chaotic scene, with multiple victims trapped beneath the vehicle inside the store. Three individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. Four others were transported to nearby hospitals, including two in serious to critical condition and two with moderate injuries. Two additional people received medical evaluations at the scene but declined hospital transport.
The victims that did not survive the crash were later identified as Zih Dao, 28, Deris Renoj, 42, and Leonel Mateo, 52.
Video from the area showed at least one victim outside the building, though officials have not clarified where each of the fatalities occurred. Firefighters established a triage area outside the market as part of a large-scale rescue response, which forced the closure of a stretch of Westwood Boulevard.
The bicyclist who was struck suffered minor injuries and declined further medical treatment. The driver, described as an elderly woman, was not seriously hurt and remained at the scene while investigators conducted interviews. Authorities stated the crash appeared accidental and showed no signs of being intentional.
The market building previously housed a Borders bookstore.
Sweet Lawyers extends heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the loss of Zih Dao, Deris Renoj, and Leonel Mateo. We hope those who were injured make a full and steady recovery during this difficult time.
Finding Support and Accountability After a Sudden Loss
Losing someone you love in an unexpected accident can turn your world upside down. Along with the deep emotional pain, families are often faced with practical and financial concerns—medical bills, funeral arrangements, and the sudden loss of emotional and financial support. These challenges can feel overwhelming when you’re already grieving.
During times like these, it’s important to know that help is available. A wrongful death claim may provide a path toward accountability and financial stability, helping families protect their future while honoring their loved one’s memory.
Through a wrongful death claim, families may be able to seek compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical care related to the final injuries
- Lost income and future financial support
- Emotional pain and loss of companionship
This process isn’t just about financial recovery—it’s about accountability. When negligence, reckless behavior, or impaired driving contributes to a fatal accident, holding the responsible party accountable can help bring justice and reduce the risk of similar tragedies happening to others.
While nothing can ever replace the life that was lost, pursuing justice can offer families a sense of closure and peace. It’s one meaningful way to honor a loved one’s life and legacy.
At Sweet Lawyers, we understand how heavy this journey can feel. Our experienced wrongful death and personal injury attorneys are here to answer your questions, guide you through your options, and stand by your side with compassion and care.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. We’ll take on the legal burden so you can focus on healing and being with the people who matter most.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a car accident, call Sweet Lawyers at (800) 674-7852 for a free, confidential consultation. We’re available 24/7 to listen, support you, and fight for the justice your family deserves.

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