Driver rearrested in fatal girls’ school crash investigation
The driver involved in a tragic crash that killed two eight-year-old girls at a school tea party in Wimbledon has been rearrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. Claire Freemantle, 48, had previously expressed her deepest sorrow over the incident, stating that she had no recollection of what happened when her vehicle crashed into The Study Preparatory School on 6 July 2023, killing Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the decision to reopen the investigation came after a review of the case, prompted by concerns raised by the victims’ families. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) had previously decided in June 2024 not to charge Freemantle, citing medical evidence that she had suffered an epileptic seizure behind the wheel, which caused her to lose control of the vehicle before it plowed into the school’s tea party.
At the time, the CPS ruled that Freemantle could not be held criminally responsible due to her medical condition. Her solicitor also stated that her epilepsy had never manifested itself before and that she had always been in good health. Despite this, the families of Nuria and Selena have continued to seek answers and accountability, leading to the recent decision to revisit the case.
The parents of the victims have expressed relief and support for the renewed investigation, stating that it is necessary to pursue the full truth about the circumstances surrounding the crash. In a statement issued on Tuesday, they emphasized the importance of allowing the inquiry to proceed without interference, urging that each step be taken in the pursuit of justice.
The school’s headteacher, Sharon Maher, and former interim head, Helen Lowe, have also welcomed the Met Police’s renewed efforts, reaffirming their desire for a full and thorough review of what led to the tragedy. They encouraged anyone with information who has not yet spoken to the police to come forward, stressing that it was vital to ensure all aspects of the incident are fully examined.
The handling of the case has faced significant scrutiny, particularly over the delays in forensic investigations. In April 2024, the parents of Nuria Sajjad revealed that the Metropolitan Police Commissioner had attributed the delays to a shortage of forensic officers, which had slowed progress in gathering key evidence.
Solicitor Trevor Sterling, representing 20 families affected by the crash, described the case as deeply tragic, highlighting its ongoing impact on survivors, witnesses, and the wider school community. The emotional and psychological toll on the affected families has been immense, with many continuing to struggle with grief and unanswered questions about the day’s events.
Detective Superintendent Lewis Basford, who is leading the renewed investigation, confirmed that the main priority is to ensure all leads are thoroughly examined. While he refrained from discussing specifics to maintain the integrity of the case, he urged people to avoid speculation as the investigation progresses.
Authorities have reiterated their appeal for witnesses, calling on anyone with information—especially those who may not have previously spoken with investigators—to come forward. The reopened investigation marks a significant step in the search for answers and justice for Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau, as their families and the school community continue to grapple with the devastating loss.