A social media influencer has passed away six days after being struck by a vehicle outside a nightclub in central London. Klaudia Zakrzewska, aged 32 and from Essex, sustained injuries on Argyll Street in Soho at approximately 4:30 am on Sunday, April 19. She was pronounced dead on Saturday, April 25.
Incident and Legal Proceedings
Former X Factor finalist Gabrielle Carrington, 29, appeared in court on Tuesday, charged with the attempted murder of Ms Zakrzewska, known online as Klaudiaglam on TikTok and Instagram. The incident occurred outside the Inca nightclub. The Metropolitan Police confirmed on Saturday that the charge will be upgraded to murder following Ms Zakrzewska's death.
Carrington, who resides on Broadfield Road in Manchester, also faces accusations of dangerous driving, being nearly twice the legal drink-drive limit, and causing injuries to two other individuals—a third woman and a security guard—who were also hit by her Mercedes. A 58-year-old man suffered life-changing injuries after being struck by the car.
Background of the Accused
Carrington advanced to the X Factor live finals in 2013 as a member of the group Miss Dynamix. She now boasts over 365,000 Instagram followers under the handle RIELLEUK. Described in court as a social media influencer who frequently travels to the United Arab Emirates, she made a heart sign with her hands toward friends and family in the public gallery as she was led from the dock to the cells. She did not enter any pleas during the hearing and is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey on May 19.
Community Response
Family and friends of Ms Zakrzewska attended the court hearing. Nearly £18,000 had been crowdfunded for her treatment and her family's legal fees. The GoFundMe page, reportedly set up by her mother, stated: 'If at any time things take a turn for the worst, additional funds will go towards funeral costs and continuous support for the family.' Her mother, Kinga, wrote: 'Those who know me understand how much I love my daughter and what a special bond we have, and I cannot give up on my baby girl.' She added: '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.'
Investigation Details
Footage of the incident circulating online shows a woman entering a black car before it lurches forward, striking Ms Zakrzewska, who goes under the vehicle. Detective Chief Inspector Alison Foxwell, leading the investigation, said: 'We would like to express our deepest sympathies to Klaudia’s family and friends in light of this tragic update. Our thoughts are also with everyone impacted by this incident. We recognise that this case has generated significant interest and discussion on social media; however, we would urge the public to refrain from further speculation.' She added: 'We also ask that people do not share graphic footage out of respect for Klaudia’s loved ones and for those who have been injured. The circulation of such material could also undermine our ongoing criminal investigation and potentially prejudice future court proceedings.'
