A social media influencer has died six days after being hit by a car outside a London nightclub, police have confirmed. Klaudia Zakrzewska, 32, was struck in Argyll Street, Soho, at approximately 4.30am on 19 April and was pronounced dead on Saturday.
Gabrielle Carrington, 29, a former X Factor finalist, appeared in court on Tuesday accused of attempting to kill Ms Zakrzewska outside the Inca nightclub. The Metropolitan Police said the attempted murder charge will now be increased to murder following the influencer's death. Carrington, of Broadfield Road, Manchester, also faces charges of dangerous driving, being nearly twice the drink-drive limit, and causing injuries to two other people – a third woman and a security guard who were allegedly hit by her Mercedes.
Detective Chief Inspector Alison Foxwell, leading the investigation, expressed deep sympathies to Ms Zakrzewska's family and friends, and urged the public to refrain from speculation. She also asked people not to share graphic footage out of respect for those affected, warning it could undermine the criminal investigation and prejudice future court proceedings.
Nearly £18,000 has been crowdfunded for Ms Zakrzewska's treatment and her family's legal fees. Her mother, Kinga, who set up the GoFundMe page, wrote: “Anyone who knew my gorgeous daughter knows how truly wonderful she is. She has touched so many people with her pure heart and kindness, and she deserves every chance to keep fighting.” Carrington, who reached the X Factor live finals in 2013 as part of Miss Dynamix, was remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on 19 May.
