Misconduct Inquiry Over Fatal Schoolgirl Crash
Investigation into Police Response Begins
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an inquiry into the handling of a 2023 crash in Wimbledon that killed two schoolgirls, involving 11 Metropolitan Police officers. Four current officers and one former detective constable are under scrutiny for potential gross misconduct. The incident occurred during an end-of-term tea party at The Study Preparatory School, where a Land Rover driven by Claire Freemantle collided with children. Despite the girls’ families’ belief that the initial investigation was incomplete, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) decided not to charge Freemantle, citing an undiagnosed epileptic seizure.
Families Express Relief at New Scrutiny
In a statement, the families of Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau said they were “encouraged” by the IOPC’s decision to open the inquiry. They emphasized their commitment to uncovering the full truth about the tragedy and the actions of the Metropolitan Police. “The truth must come to light,” the family added, highlighting their ongoing pursuit of clarity. The IOPC’s probe commenced in August 2025, focusing on whether officers provided misleading information and if their treatment of victims was influenced by racial factors.
Scope of the Inquiry
The investigation will assess the overall conduct of the Met’s initial response, including management practices, team behavior, and communication with affected families. It will also examine whether the process was thorough and fair. The ranks of the officers under review include a commander, detective chief inspector, detective sergeant, and detective constable, alongside two detective constables. Cdr Charmain Brenyah, who oversees the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command, acknowledged the families’ suffering and pledged support for the inquiry.
Reopening the Case
The Metropolitan Police had previously reopened the investigation in October 2024 following an internal review. Freemantle was re-arrested in January 2025 on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and was re-interviewed in July 2025. In a 2024 statement, she expressed “deepest sorrow” but claimed to have “no recollection of what took place.” The CPS received a complete evidence file from the Met in March 2025 and further legal guidance, though no final decision on charges had been made.
Families Demand Accountability
Nuria’s parents, who have been affected by the same incident, shared their frustration with the CPS. Smera Chohan, Nuria’s mother, described her emotional and angry state, questioning why the crash had not warranted a “competent and thorough investigation.” She stressed her desire for the legal system to explain the lack of justice. “I want the keepers of law to come and tell me,” she said, highlighting her sense of being “treated cruelly and unfairly.” Chohan, now undergoing her fifth surgery after injuries from the crash, urged the IOPC to address the system’s failures.
System Criticisms
Nuria’s father, Sajjad Butt, criticized the CPS for leaving the family “in the dark” and for appearing reluctant to engage with victims. He noted that the organization, which should champion justice, had previously treated them unfairly and fears a repeat. “The system is broken,” he said, asserting that victims are not being adequately protected. Prosecutors reached out to the family shortly after the BBC requested a response, but the families feel the process remains opaque.
Continued Pressure for Answers
Despite the IOPC’s inquiry, the families remain uncertain about the timeline for a decision. They hope the investigation will resolve lingering questions about the Met’s handling of the case. “It’s been left hanging for three years and that isn’t right,” Chohan said, calling for a fair and final resolution. The CPS continues to evaluate evidence, but the families are pushing for transparency in the process.
“We have always sought the truth, and will continue to champion the pursuit of complete clarity on the events of that devastating day and subsequent actions taken by the Metropolitan Police.”
“I hope the IOPC will cover that. I really want to understand why I have been treated so cruelly, unfairly and in an inhumane way.”
“The system is supposed to protect victims and we are not protected. We have been left out in the cold.”
