Misconduct inquiry over fatal schoolgirl crash
Misconduct Inquiry Over Fatal Schoolgirl Crash
Met Police Officers Face Scrutiny
The Metropolitan Police is examining 11 officers for their role in the early stages of a fatal accident in Wimbledon that claimed two young lives three years ago. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an inquiry into potential misconduct, including four current officers and one former detective constable. This probe follows concerns raised by the crash’s victims’ families about the thoroughness of the initial investigation.
A Devastating Collision
In July 2023, a Land Rover driven by Claire Freemantle struck a gathering of students at The Study Preparatory School, resulting in the deaths of eight-year-old Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau. Freemantle was not charged with a crime, as prosecutors cited an undiagnosed epileptic seizure as a contributing factor. However, the families have consistently argued that the investigation was inadequate and biased.
Families Seek Independent Review
Parents of the victims expressed cautious optimism about the IOPC’s involvement, stating they were “encouraged” by the decision to reopen the case. In a statement, they emphasized their commitment to uncovering the full truth. “The truth must come to light,” they said, highlighting their desire for clarity on the events of that tragic day and the subsequent actions of the police.
Scope of the Inquiry
The IOPC investigation, initiated in August 2025, will assess claims that Metropolitan Police officers provided misleading information to those affected. It will also examine whether racial factors influenced the treatment of the victims. The review includes evaluations of the investigation’s management, team conduct, and communication with the families.
Reopened Police Probe
In October 2024, the Met Police announced it was restarting its inquiry after an internal review uncovered new lines of investigation. Claire Freemantle was re-arrested in January 2025 on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. She was interviewed again in July 2025, though her previous statement in 2024 had shown no memory of the incident.
Prosecutors’ Ongoing Deliberations
The Crown Prosecution Service has received all relevant evidence from the Met Police on 17 March and obtained additional legal guidance recently. Despite this, further considerations are needed before a decision on charges can be finalized. The families remain frustrated, believing the system has yet to deliver justice.
Parents’ Call for Accountability
Speaking from their Wimbledon home, Nuria’s parents shared their anguish over the delayed investigation. Smera Chohan, Nuria’s mother, described her emotional state and anger, questioning why the case hadn’t received a “competent and thorough” review. “I want the law’s keepers to explain how I’ve been treated,” she said, stressing the need for fairness. Chohan, who is undergoing her fifth surgery after injuries from the crash, urged the system to “do it right.”
“We are deeply concerned — the CPS has left us in the dark. As the organization meant to advance justice, it seems reluctant to engage with victims,” said Nuria’s father, Sajjad Butt. “The last time we were treated unfairly, we know now, and we fear it may happen again. The system is broken — it should protect victims, but we’ve been left out in the cold.”
