Los Gatos, CA — A shocking crash on Thanksgiving night left a beloved Los Gatos coffee shop in ruins after a 90-year-old driver allegedly drove under the influence and slammed into the building. The incident was captured on surveillance video, showing the car speeding down University Avenue before ramming into Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company around 9 p.m. Thursday.
Coffee Shop Owner Shares Devastation
Owner Teri Hope described the scene as devastating but expressed relief that no one inside the shop was injured.
“Fixtures and furniture in half the building have been demolished,” Hope said. “That is the heart of our business.” Photos from the scene show a dark-colored sedan resting atop shattered debris after crashing through the front plate-glass window.
Driver Taken to Hospital, Investigation Ongoing
Police reported that the driver was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was transported to a local hospital, where he is in stable condition. Authorities stated that alcohol may have played a role, but all factors are being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
“The business was closed and unoccupied at the time of this incident,” Los Gatos Police said. “We are looking into all circumstances surrounding the crash.”
Community Shaken by Near-Tragedy
Regular patrons expressed how frightening the incident could have been if it occurred during business hours.
“So many times we’ve sat in that room that’s been devastated,” said Sheila Lebedenko, a frequent customer. “And it’s just to think that you could be sitting there drinking coffee, eating pastry, watching musicians and that could just suddenly happen.”
Despite the destruction, Hope remains optimistic about the shop’s future.
“I believe we are going to be back on our feet shortly,” she said as per The Post.
What Happens Next
Authorities continue to investigate the crash, including confirming any potential impairment by alcohol and the circumstances that led the driver to lose control. The community and coffee lovers alike await updates on the shop’s reopening.
Join the Conversation
Were you shocked to hear about the Los Gatos coffee shop crash? Share your thoughts on community safety and rebuilding efforts in the comments below.
