Braverman “saddened” by Wimbledon school crash
By Connor Steel
HOME SECRETARY Suella Braverman has thanked all emergency services for their work and tweeted her sadness following a tragic incident that occurred in Wimbledon early on Thursday morning (July 6); which saw one child killed and multiple casualties after a vehicle crashed into a primary school as their classes celebrated the final day of term.
Emergency services were called to the scene at the Study Preparatory School on Camp Road at around 9:54am and immediately declared a major incident; photographs showing a stationary Land Rover crashed into the building. Local MP Steven Hammond further stated students had been enjoying an end of term party in the gardens at the time.
Paramedics treated a total of sixteen people for injuries but they announced that an eight year girl had passed away at the scene. The Met Police have further confirmed the crash is not being treated as terror-related and asked people not to speculate; stating that a woman in her 40s has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
The school is located nearby to Wimbledon Common and is home to girls aged from 4-11 years; each term costing a total of £5,565. A statement said: “We are profoundly shocked by the tragic accident this morning at Wilberforce House and devastated that it has claimed the life of one of our young pupils as well as injuring several others.”
It continued: “Our thoughts are with the bereaved family and with the families of those injured at this terrible time.” It is still far too soon to fully understand what happened, but we are well aware of the significant impact this dreadful event will have on our pupils and their families. Their welfare remains our top priority and we will be doing everything we can to support them, especially those who suffered injuries”
The news prompted reaction from politicians including the Fareham MP, who tweeted at lunchtime: “I am saddened to hear about the tragic incident at the school in Wimbledon this morning. My thoughts are with everyone affected. I would like to thank emergency responders at the scene. It is important they are now able to carry out their investigation.”
Prime Minster Rishi Sunak commented that his “deepest condolences” were with the family of the girl who had died, and his thoughts were with those involved and injured. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “The incident this morning at a primary school on Camp Road in Wimbledon is absolutely devastating. My heart goes out to everyone affected.”
Readers are encouraged to visit media sites such as BBC News, Sky News and ITV News for all developing updates on this story, which may include future bulletins from police and emergency services in response to the incident.
PICTURED BY ALAMY (2RB0A73): Stationary vehicle is viewed inside the grounds of primary school in Wimbledon.
