In a devastating incident at The Study Prep School in Wimbledon, a car crashed through a fence and collided with a building, leading to the loss of a young life and several injuries. Detectives from the Metropolitan Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident, which occurred on Thursday, July 6.
The authorities were alerted at 09:54 as reports flooded in about the car crashing through the school’s fence located on Camp Road in SW19. Responding swiftly, a substantial contingent of 35 police vehicles arrived at the scene. Collaborating closely with paramedics, the officers provided first aid to the injured individuals.
Tragically, despite the dedicated efforts of the emergency services, an eight-year-old girl lost her life at the scene. The parents of the deceased child are currently receiving support from family liaison officers, and their welfare is of utmost concern to the authorities. Additionally, another eight-year-old girl is presently hospitalised and in a life-threatening condition, while a woman in her 40s remains in critical condition.
Among those affected by the incident were parents and caregivers of the school-age children, not staff members. Several individuals, including a seven-month-old girl, were transported to the hospital for evaluation, fortunately with non-life-threatening injuries.
The driver of the vehicle, a 46-year-old woman from Wimbledon, was apprehended at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. Although she was taken to the hospital for assessment, her condition was determined to be not life-threatening. Currently, on bail, she awaits further questioning until a date in late July.
As the investigation progresses, the Serious Collision Investigation Unit detectives are diligently pursuing all lines of inquiry. Their presence at the scene is expected to continue throughout the day, as they meticulously gather evidence and examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities urge the public to refrain from speculating on the incident while the investigation is ongoing.
Detective Chief Superintendent Clair Kelland, the local policing commander for south-west London, expressed her sympathy for the families affected by the tragedy. She assured them of the authorities’ unwavering support during this distressing time. Acknowledging the impact this incident has had on the wider community, she emphasised the collaborative efforts being made with partner organizations to provide the necessary support.
The response to this tragic incident marks the most significant local policing deployment in south-west London since 2017. The officers and emergency service personnel faced a challenging and traumatic scene, and their efforts in aiding the injured were commendable. The welfare of these responders is being attended to, recognising the emotional impact this incident has had on them.
While the community seeks answers regarding the cause of the collision, Detective Chief Superintendent Kelland implored them not to engage in speculation. She assured the public that a dedicated team of detectives is tirelessly working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities have gathered CCTV footage from nearby buildings and have interviewed multiple witnesses to assist in their investigation. The vehicle involved in the collision has been removed from the scene and will undergo further examination.
Anyone who witnessed the incident and has not yet come forward is urged to contact the police at 101, quoting CAD 2200/06Jul, to provide their account and any additional information that may aid the ongoing investigation.
