A 49-year-old woman attended Westminster Magistrates’ Court last month charged with causing the deaths of two 8-year-old schoolgirls in Wimbledon.
On July 6, 2023, an end-of-term garden party at the Study Preparatory School quickly turned into a horrific scene, as a Land Rover ploughed into the school grounds, killing the two girls and injuring seven others, including the mother of one of the deceased.
Initial investigations by the Metropolitan Police concluded that no charges would be brought as the driver had suffered an epileptic seizure. This was challenged by the victims’ families, who felt the police had not thoroughly investigated the incident. The Independent Office of Police Conduct is currently investigating 11 police officers over the way they handled the initial investigation.
Following complaints, the police reopened the investigation. The driver was re-arrested in January 2025 and released on bail, with charges being brought in May this year. She faces two counts of causing death by dangerous driving, and seven counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
At this week’s hearing, the defendant was bailed, and the case was transferred to the Old Bailey, where the case will resume on July 14. The defendant’s lawyers have indicated that she intends to plead not guilty to all charges.
If you are facing a charge of causing death by dangerous driving, solicitors at Auriga Advocates can provide clear and reliable advice as your case moves through the legal process. Contact us now, and let’s talk through your case and put together a plan going forward.