Crime
Ihor Demianenko Identified as Driver in North Hollywood Crash That Killed 3 and Critically Injured 2, Held on $6 Million Bail
NORTH HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES — A 61-year-old driver has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after a vehicle crashed into pedestrians and street vendors near a Metro station in North Hollywood, killing three women and injuring two others.
The driver, identified as Ihor Demianenko, is being held on more than $6 million bail. In addition to the suspected DUI offense, he is facing three counts of murder in connection with the deadly crash, according to authorities.
The collision happened shortly before 6 p.m. Tuesday near the Metro station on North Lankershim Boulevard, close to Chandler Boulevard, during the evening rush hour.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Demianenko was driving a white minivan southbound on Lankershim Boulevard at what investigators described as an unsafe speed. The vehicle reportedly veered off the roadway and struck several pedestrians and food vendors on the sidewalk.
Demianenko became trapped inside the minivan and had to be extricated by emergency responders. He was taken to a hospital with minor injuries before being arrested on suspicion of felony DUI.
Three women were pronounced dead at the scene. The LAPD confirmed that the victims were 40, 53 and 69 years old. Their identities had not been publicly released in the information available.
Two additional women, believed to be between 50 and 55 years old, were struck and transported to a hospital in critical condition.
The crash occurred in an area where street vendors regularly sell food and other items near the Metro station entrance and exit. Witnesses told local media that at least two of the women who died were longtime food vendors who had worked in the area for years.
The deaths have deeply affected commuters, customers and neighborhood residents who regularly encountered the women.
People familiar with the vendors described them as friendly and generous community members who welcomed customers and sometimes provided food even to people who could not afford to pay.
A growing memorial appeared near the crash site Wednesday as people stopped to pay their respects and remember the women.
Joseph Portillo, who said he saw the vendors regularly, expressed sadness over their deaths and the impact on their families and children.
Another vendor, Noe Orozco, told local media that he worked alongside the women and regularly dropped them off in the morning and picked them up later in the day. He said he had just picked them up as usual when he came upon the devastating crash scene and discovered that one of his colleagues had died.
The Los Angeles Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision, including the events leading up to the minivan leaving the roadway.
Demianenko remains in custody on more than $6 million bail. He has been arrested on suspicion of DUI and is facing three murder counts.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to establish the full sequence of events that led to the deaths and injuries.
Crime
Brian and Keyata Harman Identified in Apparent Murder-Suicide Investigation in Nelson County, Kentucky
NELSON COUNTY, Ky. — A heartbreaking tragedy in Nelson County has left a school community mourning the loss of a beloved educator, volleyball coach, and mentor. Authorities are investigating the deaths of Brian Harman, 54, and his wife, Keyata Harman, 52, in what officials are describing as an apparent murder-suicide.
The Nelson County Coroner’s Office identified the couple following an incident early Tuesday morning. Investigators say Brian Harman allegedly shot and killed his wife before his own death. Authorities have not yet released a complete account of the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Court records indicate that Keyata Harman had filed for divorce from her estranged husband on October 15, less than a month before the deadly incident. Officials have not confirmed whether the divorce proceedings were connected to the events under investigation.
Beyond the tragedy, Keyata Harman is being remembered for the meaningful difference she made in the lives of students, athletes, colleagues, and families throughout the Bardstown community.
She worked as a teacher at Bardstown Middle School and also served as the head coach of the girls’ varsity volleyball team at Nelson County High School, Bardstown City Schools confirmed.
Her work extended far beyond the classroom and the volleyball court. She was known as someone students could turn to for encouragement, guidance, and support.
Bardstown Middle School Principal Matt Bartley reflected on the lasting influence she had on those around her.
“She made lasting impressions on countless students and colleagues in her time at Bardstown Middle. Her impact will be felt for years to come,” Bartley said.
Bardstown City Schools Superintendent Ryan Clark also shared heartfelt words about the educator, remembering her dedication to young people and her ability to make students feel supported.
“Ms. Harman had a heart for kids and was always in their corner,” Clark said. He described her as someone who cheered students on at games, listened when they needed someone, and served as a mentor to those seeking advice and encouragement.
Clark added that although teaching was not her first profession, her natural ability to connect with children showed that education had become her calling.
For the many students and athletes she supported, Keyata was more than a teacher or coach. She was a trusted mentor whose encouragement and kindness made a lasting impression.
As the Bardstown community comes to terms with the loss, Bardstown City Schools announced that counseling services are available to students, teachers, and staff members affected by the tragedy.
A vigil honoring Keyata Harman is scheduled for Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Nelson County High School. The gathering will provide an opportunity for students, colleagues, friends, and community members to remember her life and recognize the impact she had on so many people.
The Nelson County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident. Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The loss of Keyata Harman has deeply affected the school community where she dedicated her time and energy to helping young people grow. Her legacy will be remembered through the students she encouraged, the athletes she coached, and the countless individuals whose lives she touched.
Our deepest condolences go out to her family, friends, students, players, colleagues, and everyone grieving this devastating loss. May they find strength and comfort in the memories they shared with her.
May Keyata Harman rest in peace.
Domestic Violence Support: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, confidential help is available 24 hours a day through the National Domestic Violence Hotline:
- Call: 1-800-799-7233
- Text: START to 88788
You are not alone, and support is available.