IOPC investigates 11 officers over handling of fatal Wimbledon school crash

IOPC investigates 11 officers over handling of fatal Wimbledon school crash

An investigation has been launched by the police watchdog into the conduct of eleven Metropolitan Police officers concerning their initial inquiry into a fatal crash that occurred three years ago in Wimbledon, resulting in the deaths of two young schoolgirls. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed that among those being examined for potential gross misconduct are four current officers and one former detective constable.

The tragedy occurred in July 2023, when a Land Rover driven by Claire Freemantle crashed into a tea party held on the lawn of The Study Preparatory School. The collision claimed the lives of eight-year-olds Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau. Although Freemantle was not charged following the crash—due to the Crown Prosecution Service’s determination that she had experienced an undiagnosed epileptic seizure—the families of the girls have consistently expressed concern that the original investigation was flawed.

The ongoing IOPC inquiry, which started in August 2025, is examining allegations that some Metropolitan Police officers provided false or misleading information to those affected by the incident. Additionally, the aspects under review include whether the treatment of those impacted was influenced by racial factors, the quality and management of the original investigation, and how the officers engaged with victims and their families. Those under scrutiny include officers with ranks ranging from commander to detective constable.

Nuria Sajjad’s parents have voiced their hopes that the current investigation will reveal how the police “failed” in their initial handling of the case. Her mother, Smera Chohan, expressed profound frustration and pain, emphasizing the need for a “competent and thorough investigation” and demanding transparency from those responsible for upholding the law. Meanwhile, the Crown Prosecution Service reported that while it had received a full evidence file from the Metropolitan Police and subsequent legal advice, further factors remain to be considered before any charging decisions can be made. The families continue to grapple with the profound absence of answers as they remember their daughters and pursue justice

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