Claire‑Louise Freemantle, 49, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court charged with causing death by dangerous driving following a crash involving a Land Rover at The Study Preparatory School in Wimbledon on 6 July 2023.
The vehicle struck a school end-of-term tea party, tragically killing two eight-year-old girls, Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau, and seriously injuring several others. The incident deeply shocked the south-west London community.
Nearly three years after the tragic event, Freemantle confirmed her identity at court but was not asked to enter pleas. Her legal team requested she sit in the court well rather than the dock due to her epilepsy diagnosis, a request the judge accepted without opposition from the prosecution.
Freemantle faces two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and seven counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. The victims include Nuria’s mother, Smera Chohan, other mothers, and children aged between seven months and eight years.
District Judge Paul Goldspring sent the case to the Old Bailey for trial, ordering Freemantle to appear at the Central Criminal Court on 14 July. She was released on unconditional bail.
Parents and families of the injured attended the hearing, showing the case remains deeply felt within the community.
The charges follow criticism of the Metropolitan Police’s handling of the investigation. Initial police statements claimed Freemantle had an epileptic seizure and would not face prosecution, but that decision was reversed after public outcry.
The Metropolitan Police have apologised and pledged major changes to how they conduct fatal and serious collision inquiries.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct continues investigations into allegations of racism and misleading information given to families. Four serving officers, including senior ranks, face gross misconduct investigations in connection with the case.
Originally published by UKNIP.
