The driver of the SUV involved in the fatal crash at Wimbledon Prep school has been rearrested as the Metropolitan Police reopened their investigation, raising hopes for the families of the two young victims. Eight-year-old girls, Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau, tragically lost their lives when Claire Freemantle's Land Rover collided with the school on July 6, 2023, during an end-of-year tea party.
Nuria and Selena were known to be at the school enjoying their time with classmates and staff when the vehicle crashed through the fence, injuring over a dozen others present. Following the incident, Freemantle was initially arrested on site, but the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) decided not to pursue charges. The rationale at the time was rooted in her alleged suffering of an epileptic seizure, which had not been previously diagnosed, leading to her losing control of the vehicle.
On January 28, 2025, the Met Police announced the latest arrest. A 48-year-old woman, named Claire Freemantle, was taken back for questioning, now suspected of causing death by dangerous driving. This development marks the second time Freemantle has been arrested concerning the case, as she was initially taken just after the crash.
After the accident, Ms. Freemantle expressed her “deepest sorrow,” highlighting her mental and emotional turmoil following the incident. “I have no recollection of what took place,” she stated, emphasizing how the tragic event has weighed heavily on her mind. Her legal representatives declared her health had always been good prior to the event and described the seizure as unexpected.
Months after the crash, both the families of Nuria and Selena voiced their dissatisfaction with how the initial investigation was handled. They expressed concerns about the lack of depth and thoroughness, which prompted the reopening of the investigation by the Met Police following significant public outcry and media scrutiny.
Detective Superintendent Lewis Basford, who leads the renewed inquiry, shared insights about the investigation's progression. “This is a live investigation and to maintain its integrity I can't go to greater detail at this stage,” he asserted, urging witnesses to come forward. The investigation seeks to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the collision, which occurred on what should have been a joyful occasion.
Freemantle, after her initial arrest, had her case reviewed last year. Investigators initially ruled out criminal charges based on the information available, but the reopening prompted detectives to explore potentially overlooked evidence. A significant concern raised was the fact Ms. Freemantle had never previously experienced seizures, which contradicted earlier claims about her medical history.
The parents of Selena and Nuria released statements emphasizing their desire for the truth, denouncing the initial investigation's findings. They articulated, “We welcomed the reopening of the investigation by the Metropolitan Police... It is important this investigation runs its course unhindered and each step is based on pursuing the truth and full facts.” This statement encapsulates the families' hopes for accountability and justice.
The investigation is of utmost importance to the local school community. Headteacher Sharon Maher commented, alongside interim head Helen Lowe, stating they had always supported the need for clarity surrounding the devastating events. They urged anyone who might have pertinent information to step forward, ensuring community collaboration for the pursuit of justice.
Solicitor Trevor Sterling, who is representing numerous families affected by this accident, expressed deep sympathies for the families and emphasized the enduring impact this tragedy has wrought on everyone involved. “This remains an incredibly tragic case, which has...a deep effect on all those affected,” he stated, reflecting the collective mourning of the community.
Despite the length of time since the initial incident, the families maintain hope for resolution and are vocal about their determination to see thorough examination of the case's details. Jessie Deng, Selena's mother, expressed, “All we have ever wanted is for there to be thorough and open investigations for Selena, Nuria, and the families whose lives were turned upside down.”
Community members, local officials, and the police continue to seek information, appealing for any local witnesses. Detective Superintendent Basford reiterated the call for information: “Were you attending the local golf course or driving around the area of The Study Prep School? Did you see the vehicle, which was distinctive gold?” The police's main priority is to follow through on the inquiries initiated through the review.
The tragic deaths of Nuria and Selena have not faded from public memory. Photos from the day of the event depict moments of joy, underscoring the unbearable abruptness of the tragedy. Both girls' families are adamant about the importance of their memories and hope for swift justice.
Police continue to encourage any individuals with information to contact them at the major incident room or to report anonymously if preferred. They are determined to resolve any remaining questions surrounding the crash.