Former X Factor Finalist Detained After Soho Collision Leaves Influencer in Critical Condition
In a shocking incident in central London, a former X Factor star has been arrested after a car crash left a prominent social media influencer fighting for her life. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest of Gabrielle Carrington, 29, following the collision on Argyll Street in Soho during the early hours of Sunday morning.
Details of the Argyll Street Incident
The crash involved a black car that ploughed into a group of pedestrians, resulting in serious injuries. Klaudia Zakrzewska, known online as Klaudiaglam, was among those hit and is currently in a serious condition in hospital. The Polish-born influencer, who boasts over 258,000 Instagram followers, had been at the Inca nightclub with friends prior to the incident.
A video circulating online appears to capture the moment of impact, showing Klaudia falling to the ground and becoming trapped under the vehicle as bystanders rushed to assist. Police have reported that two other pedestrians were also injured in the collision.
Arrest and Charges
Gabrielle Carrington, who performs under the name RIELLEUK, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of multiple offences including attempted murder, grievous bodily harm, dangerous driving, and drink driving. She remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Carrington rose to fame as a member of the girl group Miss Dynamix during the 2013 season of X Factor, reaching the live finals before being voted off. Following the group's split in 2014, she transitioned to becoming an influencer herself, amassing over 362,000 Instagram followers and documenting a lifestyle of luxury holidays, fine dining, and hair brand development.
Victims and Police Appeal
In addition to Klaudia Zakrzewska's critical injuries, police confirmed that a man in his 50s sustained life-changing injuries and was taken to hospital. A third victim, a woman in her 30s, received treatment for minor injuries.
Detective Chief Inspector Alison Foxwell from Specialist Crime South issued a public appeal for witnesses, stating: "As our enquiries continue, our thoughts are with those injured and their loved ones. While this incident took place in the early hours of the morning, venues in the area were still open, and we believe a number of people will have seen what happened."
She urged anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that even seemingly minor details could prove crucial to the investigation. The police are particularly interested in any footage or accounts of activity prior to the collision that might shed light on the circumstances.
Background of Those Involved
Klaudia Zakrzewska has built a substantial online presence through her Klaudiaglam persona, sharing fashion and lifestyle content with her quarter-million followers. Meanwhile, Gabrielle Carrington's journey from reality television to influencer marketing represents a common trajectory for many former contestants seeking to maintain public relevance.
Following Miss Dynamix's elimination from X Factor in October 2013, Carrington expressed mixed feelings about their performance, telling the Xtra Factor: "We've never been satisfied so far but our sing off, that was Miss Dynamix. That was us." Her arrest marks a dramatic turn in a career that had been focused on building a personal brand through social media engagement.
