Misconduct inquiry over fatal schoolgirl crash
Misconduct inquiry over fatal schoolgirl crash
Three years after a tragic incident in Wimbledon claimed the lives of two young girls, the Metropolitan Police is facing scrutiny from an independent watchdog. Eleven officers are under review for their role in handling the initial investigation into the crash, according to the BBC. Among them, four are currently serving, while one former detective constable is also being examined for potential gross misconduct.
The collision occurred during an end-of-term tea party on the school grounds, where a Land Rover driven by Claire Freemantle struck the gathering. Both Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau, eight-year-olds, died as a result. Although Freemantle was not charged, the Crown Prosecution Service cited an undiagnosed epileptic seizure as the reason. However, the families of the girls have consistently argued that the investigation was inadequate.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched its inquiry in August 2025, focusing on allegations that Met officers provided misleading information to those affected and whether racial bias influenced their actions. The review will also assess the investigation’s management, team conduct, and engagement with victims.
“We have always sought the truth and will continue to push for complete clarity on that day and the steps the Metropolitan Police took afterward,” said the families in a statement. “The truth must come to light.”
Following an internal review, the Met Police announced in October 2024 it was reopening the case. Freemantle was re-arrested in January 2025 on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and interviewed again in July. In a previous statement from 2024, she expressed sorrow but claimed no memory of the event.
The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed it received the full evidence file from the Met on 17 March and obtained additional legal guidance recently. Yet, further considerations are needed before a decision on charges is finalized.
Families’ ongoing concerns
At their home in Wimbledon, surrounded by photographs of their daughter, Nuria’s parents shared their frustration. They emphasized their hope that the IOPC’s inquiry would reveal how the Met had “failed” them. Nuria’s mother, Smera Chohan, described her emotions as “emotional and angry,” questioning why the incident hadn’t warranted a “competent and thorough investigation.”
“I want to know why I’ve been treated so cruelly and unfairly,” Chohan said. “I’m not asking for sympathy—just a proper process. Three years of uncertainty isn’t acceptable.”
Her husband, Sajjad Butt, added: “We’re deeply concerned—CPS has left us in the dark. As the organization meant to deliver justice, it seems unwilling to engage with victims. We know the last time we were treated unfairly, and we fear it will happen again.”
Prosecutors reached out to the family shortly after the BBC requested a response. Despite this, the families feel the search for answers remains incomplete.
