The streets of Wimbledon fell silent last year when a horrific collision occurred at The Study Preparatory School, claiming the lives of two young girls. On Thursday, Claire Freemantle, 49, appeared before Westminster Magistrates' Court, charged with two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and seven counts of causing serious injury.
The devastating crash on 6th July 2023 saw a Land Rover driven by Ms Freemantle collide with an end-of-term tea party being held on the school lawn. The tragedy resulted in the loss of eight-year-old Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau, both of whom were at the centre of their respective families' lives. In addition to these fatalities, seven others – including a mother, two adults, three children under the age of ten, and a seven-month-old infant – sustained serious injuries in the incident.
During the brief hearing, Ms Freemantle spoke only to confirm her personal details. The parents of Nuria and Selena, along with other individuals affected by the crash, were present in the public gallery, bearing witness to the proceedings. Her legal representatives have previously stated that she intends to plead not guilty to all charges.
The charges against Ms Freemantle were filed in May, following a comprehensive investigation by the Metropolitan Police. Initially, prosecutors had decided not to charge her, citing an undiagnosed epileptic seizure as a contributing factor. However, this decision was later reviewed and overturned, leading to the current charges being brought.
Separately, an independent inquiry is underway, investigating 11 Metropolitan Police officers in connection with their conduct during the initial investigation. The families of Nuria and Selena have spoken warmly of their loved ones, describing them as bright lights who were cherished by all who knew them. Ms Freemantle has been granted bail and will appear at the Old Bailey on 14th July for her next hearing.