Shock as Driver Who Killed Two Girls at School Party Avoids Charges Over Epileptic Seizure
The families of two young girls tragically killed when a Land Rover crashed into their school party have voiced deep disappointment after prosecutors ruled no criminal charges will be brought against the driver.
Seizure Behind Wheel Sparks Deadly Crash
Claire Freemantle, 47, suffered an epileptic seizure while driving in Wimbledon, south-west London. Her Land Rover smashed through a fence and ploughed into an end-of-term celebration at The Study Prep school on July 6 last year.
The horrific collision killed eight-year-olds Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau. More than a dozen others were injured in the chaos.
No Charges Despite Fatal Crash
Ms Freemantle was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. However, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announced she will face no further action, citing that the seizure caused the crash and was unforeseeable.
“I have no recollection of the incident due to the seizure,” Ms Freemantle said, expressing “deepest sorrow” for the tragedy.
Families Demand Justice and Answers
The devastated families slammed the decision. Trevor Sterling, their lawyer, blasted: “Justice must not only be done but seen to be done. How can evidence be properly examined without a process? What message does it send if fatal road incidents escape sanction?”
In a joint statement, Nuria and Selena’s parents said: “We were in the safest place, celebrating joyfully. Our children’s lives were cruelly taken in a moment. Hundreds of lives have been shattered forever. We trusted the system to deliver justice—but we’ve been let down. The investigation and process feel inadequate.”
Authorities Stand by Decision
Jaswant Narwal, Chief Crown Prosecutor, confirmed the driver’s seizure was unexpected with no prior history. “Because the event was unforeseeable and could not have been prevented, pursuing criminal charges is not in the public interest,” he said.
Met Police Detective Chief Superintendent Clair Kelland added: “Officers worked tirelessly on the investigation. For charges, there must be driver responsibility. Given these circumstances, that’s not the case here.”
A Community Left Mourning
The tragedy continues to weigh heavily on the families and school community. With no criminal prosecution, all eyes turn now to the upcoming inquest for a fuller review of what happened and to seek justice for Nuria and Selena.
