Misconduct inquiry over fatal schoolgirl crash

Met Police officers under scrutiny for handling crash investigation

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is examining eleven Metropolitan Police officers for their conduct during the initial inquiry into a fatal collision in Wimbledon that claimed the lives of two young girls three years ago. The watchdog has identified four current officers and one former detective constable as potential subjects of gross misconduct allegations. The crash, which occurred in July 2023, involved a Land Rover driven by Claire Freemantle striking an end-of-term gathering on the lawn of The Study Preparatory School.

Freemantle was not formally charged following the incident, as the Crown Prosecution Service cited her undiagnosed epileptic seizure as a contributing factor. However, the families of the deceased schoolgirls have consistently argued that the initial probe was insufficient. They welcomed the IOPC’s decision to launch a new inquiry, expressing hope it would uncover the full truth about the events of that day.

Families seek clarity on police response

Speaking from their home in Wimbledon, surrounded by images of their daughter, Nuria’s parents conveyed their frustration with the ongoing lack of answers. They emphasized their desire to understand why the Met’s handling of the case had been deemed inadequate. “I want the guardians of the law to explain why I have been treated so cruelly and unfairly,” Nuria’s mother, Smera Chohan, stated, adding that she remains “emotional and angry” over the three-year delay in resolving the case.

“The truth must come to light,” the families declared in a statement, highlighting their commitment to uncovering complete clarity regarding the incident and the subsequent actions of the Metropolitan Police.

Chohan, who has undergone five leg surgeries since the crash, reiterated her demand for a fair process. “I’m not asking for special treatment. I just want the investigation to be thorough and correct,” she said. Her husband, Sajjad Butt, echoed these sentiments, criticizing the Crown Prosecution Service for its perceived reluctance to engage with the victims’ families.

Expanded inquiry into police procedures

The IOPC’s investigation, which began in August 2025, aims to evaluate whether Met officers provided misleading information to those impacted by the crash. It will also assess if the treatment of victims was influenced by racial factors. The inquiry will scrutinize the investigation’s management, the team’s conduct, and their communication with the families.

Following an internal review, the Met announced in October 2024 that it was restarting its probe. Freemantle was re-arrested in January 2025 on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and was interviewed again in July 2025. Despite this, the CPS has yet to finalize its decision on charges, citing additional factors to consider after receiving the Met’s full evidence file on 17 March and further legal guidance.

“Our thoughts remain with Nuria and Selena’s families, as well as everyone affected by this tragedy,” said Cdr Charmain Brenyah, head of the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command. “We understand the extended process has added to their pain and will support the IOPC’s work to ensure accountability.”