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At least 3 dead, 7 injured after car crashes into 99 Ranch Market in Westwood - ABC7 Los Angeles

At least 3 dead, 7 injured after car crashes into 99 Ranch Market in Westwood - ABC7 Los Angeles
WESTWOOD, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A tragic incident unfolded in Westwood on Thursday afternoon when a car crashed into a grocery store, resulting in the loss of at least three lives and leaving six others injured. The horrifying crash was reported at approximately 12:11 PM, sending shockwaves through the local community as emergency responders rushed to the scene to assist victims and assess the damage. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with debris scattered across the store and panicked shoppers trying to escape the aftermath of the violent collision. The identity of the driver and the circumstances leading up to the crash are under investigation by law enforcement officials, who are working diligently to piece together the events that led to this devastating incident. As first responders arrived, they quickly began to provide medical assistance to the injured, some of whom were trapped inside the store. Paramedics worked to stabilize those in critical condition before transporting them to nearby hospitals for further treatment. The six individuals who sustained injuries ranged in severity, and authorities have not yet released detailed information about their conditions. Local hospitals are working to provide the necessary care, while families of the victims are grappling with the sudden loss and uncertainty. The community has come together in the wake of this tragedy, offering support to those affected and mourning the lives lost in the incident. In the aftermath of the crash, investigators will review surveillance footage and gather witness statements to determine what may have caused the driver to lose control. Preliminary reports suggest that the vehicle may have experienced a mechanical failure, but officials have not confirmed this theory at the time of writing. The grocery store, a staple in the Westwood area, was bustling with customers at the time of the collision, and the impact of the crash has left many residents shaken. Local authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward as they seek to provide answers and accountability. As the investigation continues, the city of Los Angeles is faced with pressing questions about pedestrian and shopper safety in busy commercial areas. This incident may prompt conversations about traffic regulations and the safety measures in place to protect individuals in areas frequented by large crowds. Community leaders and safety advocates are likely to advocate for increased safety measures, such as improved signage, speed bumps, and enhanced traffic enforcement, to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. As Westwood mourns, the hope is that lessons learned from this incident will lead to changes that enhance safety and prevent further loss of life.