The North Hollywood community in Los Angeles is mourning the deaths of Teodora Villalobos, 57, and Maria Peck, 73, two beloved street food vendors who were killed when a minivan struck pedestrians near a Los Angeles metro station on Tuesday.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner identified the two women, confirming that both died from blunt force injuries after being struck on the sidewalk. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the third woman who died in the crash, pending notification of her family.

The tragic incident happened during the evening commute when the minivan reportedly crashed into a busy intersection, striking several pedestrians.

Teodora Villalobos and Maria Peck Remembered

Villalobos and Peck were familiar faces in North Hollywood, where they earned a reputation as hardworking food vendors known for selling hot dogs and other street food.

Following the tragedy, friends, relatives and community members created a memorial at the location where the women were struck. Flowers, handwritten notes, photographs and candles were placed along the sidewalk in remembrance of their lives and the impact they had on the neighborhood.

Melissa Villalobos, the daughter of Teodora Villalobos, told KABC-TV that her mother was a hardworking woman who cared deeply about helping others.

She recalled that her mother sometimes gave food to people who could not afford to pay, explaining that she did not turn away those who were struggling.

Maria Peck had reportedly worked as a street food vendor for more than a decade, spending six days each week serving customers, including on holidays. A GoFundMe page established to support her family described her as someone who valued being part of the community and continued working long hours even as she grew older.

Driver Arrested Following Fatal Crash

Authorities arrested the driver of the minivan, identified as 61-year-old Ihor Demianenko, in connection with the incident.

Demianenko was arrested for investigation of driving under the influence and three counts of murder. His bail was set at $6 million.

As of the report, authorities had not announced when he was expected to appear in court. The arrest and charges are part of the ongoing legal process, and they do not establish guilt.

Personal Details of the Victims

Detail Information
Victim 1 Teodora Villalobos
Age 57 years old
Victim 2 Maria Peck
Age 73 years old
Third victim Identity not released
Location North Hollywood, Los Angeles, California
Occupation Street food vendors
Known for Selling hot dogs and other street food
Date of incident Tuesday; exact calendar date not provided
Cause of death Blunt force injuries
Family details Not available, except for the daughter identified as Melissa Villalobos
Funeral arrangements Not available

Cause of Death

According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, Teodora Villalobos and Maria Peck died from blunt force injuries sustained when the minivan struck them on the sidewalk.

The crash also claimed the life of a third woman whose identity had not been publicly released at the time of the report.

Investigation and Arrest

Police arrested 61-year-old Ihor Demianenko for investigation of driving under the influence and three counts of murder. His bail was set at $6 million.

Authorities had not immediately provided further details about his court appearance. The circumstances surrounding the crash and the legal proceedings remain subject to the ongoing investigation.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

Funeral and memorial arrangements for Teodora Villalobos and Maria Peck have not been provided in the available report. Further details of the obituary, memorial and funeral arrangements will be announced by the family when available.

The North Hollywood community continues to remember the two women for their hard work, kindness and connection with the people they served.

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