Claire‑Louise Freemantle, 49, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court charged with causing death by dangerous driving following a tragic crash involving a Land Rover at The Study Preparatory School in Wimbledon on 6 July 2023.
The incident occurred during an end-of-term tea party, where the vehicle struck a group of children and adults. Two eight-year-old girls, Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau, lost their lives, while several others sustained serious injuries. The crash deeply shocked the south-west London community.
Nearly three years after the event, Freemantle appeared in court to confirm her identity. She was not required to enter pleas at this initial hearing. Her legal team requested that she be allowed to sit in the court well rather than the dock due to her epilepsy diagnosis, a request the judge granted 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, as well as 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 those injured attended the hearing, reflecting the ongoing impact of the case on the local community.
The charges come amid criticism of the Metropolitan Police’s handling of the investigation. Initial police statements suggested Freemantle had an epileptic seizure and would not face prosecution, but this decision was reversed following public outcry. The Metropolitan Police have since issued an apology and promised significant changes to how fatal and serious collision investigations are conducted.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct continues to investigate allegations of racism and misleading information provided to families. Four serving officers, including those in senior positions, are facing gross misconduct investigations related to the case.
Originally published by UKNIP.
