Suspect Ihor Demianenko Identified in Fatal North Hollywood DUI Crash

Police identified Ihor Demianenko, a 61-year-old Valley Village resident, as the suspected DUI driver who killed three people in a crash near the North Hollywood Metro station earlier this week, ABC7 Los Angeles reported.

The crash occurred just before 6 p.m. Tuesday near the intersection of Lankershim and Chandler boulevards. According to police, Demianenko was driving a white Toyota Sienna at an “unsafe speed” when the vehicle veered to the right, left the roadway, and struck pedestrians and food vendors on the sidewalk.

3 people killed after car crashes near North Hollywood Metro Station — ABC7

The collision claimed the lives of Teodora Villalobos, 57, and Maria Peck, 73. A third victim has not yet been identified, while two other women in their 50s were hospitalized following the incident.

“Our hearts, our prayers go to those families that have suffered this incredible tragedy in their lives,” L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said.

At least 3 dead after vehicle crashes near North Hollywood Metro station — ABC News

Demianenko was arrested for driving under the influence but has not yet been officially charged. The District Attorney’s office is currently waiting for the Los Angeles Police Department to submit its formal investigation report.

The upcoming report is expected to provide a detailed breakdown of the circumstances leading to the impact. Hochman told reporters that the analysis will likely include a minute-by-minute account of the event, focusing on critical factors such as speed and alcohol levels.

When asked if the suspect could face murder charges, Hochman said that while such charges are always a possibility when deaths occur at the hands of another, the decision depends entirely on the evidence.

“But I won’t comment one way or the other on whether or not we’re going to bring murder charges because what we do when we bring murder charges is we base them steeply into the evidence and the law,” Hochman responded.

In the neighborhood where Demianenko lives, the news has left residents unsettled. Neighbors described him as a man who led a quiet life, largely unnoticed in the daily rhythm of the community.

3 dead after car crashes into crowd outside Metro station in North Hollywood — NBCLA

Thomas Areas, a neighbor, said he was shocked by the arrest. He said that Demianenko moved to the area from Ukraine several years ago and maintained a predictable routine.

“I only really see him when he drives off to work, or he’s picking up his mail or coming back in the evening from his walks with his wife,” Areas said.

As the investigation continues, a growing memorial has formed outside the North Hollywood Metro station to honor the three street vendors killed in the crash.