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The court proceedings have begun for the driver involved in a tragic crash that claimed the lives of two young girls at a school in south-west London. On 6 July 2023, a Land Rover driven by Claire Freemantle collided with an end-of-term tea party held on the lawn of The Study Preparatory School in Wimbledon. The accident resulted in the deaths of eight-year-old Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau, and multiple other injuries.
During her initial appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, Freemantle, 49, faced charges including two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and seven counts of causing serious injury. Among those injured were parents and children present at the event, including Nuria’s mother, Smera Chohan, two other adults, two other eight-year-olds, a seven-year-old, and a seven-month-old infant. Freemantle confirmed her personal details but did not make any further statement.
Freemantle, who resides in Edge Hill, Wimbledon, was originally not charged following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police, which concluded in early 2024. Prosecutors had decided against pressing charges, citing that she suffered an undiagnosed epileptic seizure at the time of the incident. However, charges were brought in May after the case was revisited. The police watchdog is now conducting an inquiry into the conduct of 11 Met Police officers involved in the original investigation.
Families of the victims have spoken about their daughters’ characters, remembering Nuria as “a bright, feisty girl who had a zest for life” and describing Selena as “an intelligent and cheeky girl who was adored and loved by everyone.” Claire Freemantle’s legal representatives have indicated she intends to plead not guilty to all charges. She was granted bail and is scheduled to appear next at the Old Bailey on 14 July
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