A woman, identified as Claire Freemantle, aged 49, is facing charges related to a tragic incident where two eight-year-old schoolgirls lost their lives and several others were injured after being struck by a 4×4 vehicle at a primary school in Wimbledon, south London, in July 2023. The accused has been charged with causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving. The defendant is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Tuesday, June 16.
The fatal incident occurred on July 6 when families were gathered at the school grounds to mark the end of the term. Following an initial investigation by the Roads and Transport Policing Command, the Crown Prosecution Service initially decided not to pursue further action against Freemantle. However, concerns raised by the families of the deceased girls led to a review of the investigation by specialists.
Commander Charmain Brenyah, in charge of the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command, expressed sympathy for the families and acknowledged the need for an independent review of the case. He mentioned ongoing support for the Independent Office for Police Conduct’s investigation into the initial inquiry. Additionally, he highlighted plans to revamp the Met’s approach to investigating fatal and serious collisions to enhance support for victims and their families.
Mark Jones, a criminal defense partner at Payne Hicks Beach LLP, issued a statement on behalf of Claire Freemantle, stating that she intends to plead not guilty to the charges brought against her. Jones explained that Freemantle, who is a mother herself, suffered an epileptic seizure just before the tragic accident and has no memory of the event. He shared details of her medical condition and disclosed that the CPS previously determined not to prosecute due to the seizure.
Jones emphasized that Freemantle continues to receive medical care for her condition and has experienced further seizures since the incident. He defended the initial decision by the CPS and raised questions about the reversal of that decision. Jones concluded the statement by requesting privacy for Freemantle and her family during this challenging time.
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