The tragic death of eight-year-old Selena Lau at The Study Prep School in Wimbledon has left her family devastated and calling for justice. Last July, a 4X4 Land Rover smashed through the school playground fence, killing Selena and her friend Nuria Sajjad while injuring dozens of others.
A Tragic Day at the School
Selena Lau was enjoying a school tea party when the car ploughed into the playground. Minutes earlier, she had performed Scott Joplin’s The Entertainer on the piano, receiving a warm round of applause from students and parents. Moments later, the catastrophic crash claimed the lives of two young children.
Parents Share Their Agony
In an emotional interview with Daily Express columnist Vanessa Feltz, Selena’s parents, Franky and Jessie Lau, expressed their ongoing torment. Jessie recalled the moment she received a call from the school, telling her something “really serious” had happened. She described the heartbreak of seeing her daughter’s body:
“It was the end of my world… I wish that was me lying there, not her. I’d give anything to have her back.”
Franky recounted replaying that day in his mind daily, wondering if he could have prevented the tragedy. The family’s grief is compounded by the uncertainty surrounding the police investigation.
Police Investigation Underway
The driver, a 46-year-old woman from Wimbledon, was initially arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving but has since been released under investigation. The family has expressed frustration over the lack of progress and the fact that the driver is free to move without restrictions.
Detective Chief Superintendent Clair Kelland, overseeing the case, reassured the public that specialist detectives are thoroughly investigating, including analyzing CCTV footage and forensic reports. She acknowledged the distress caused by the lengthy investigation process but emphasized the need for a careful and comprehensive approach.
Impact on the Family
The tragedy has taken a heavy emotional toll on Selena’s parents and her 12-year-old sister. The young girl has stopped attending piano, netball, dancing, and singing classes she once enjoyed alongside Selena.
The Lau family remains close with the family of Nuria Sajjad, sharing in their grief and frustration. Both families are demanding answers and justice for the children lost that day.
Community Response
Since the incident, members of the Wimbledon community have laid flowers and tributes at the school. The tragedy has sparked conversations about school safety, responsible driving, and the need for timely legal accountability.
Conclusion
The death of Selena Lau and Nuria Sajjad is a painful reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike. While the investigation continues, the parents’ call for justice resonates with many, highlighting the ongoing need for safety, accountability, and closure for families affected by such devastating events.