A past participant of X Factor has refuted allegations of causing the death of a social media influencer through a car collision in central London. Gabrielle Carrington, aged 29, reportedly hit Klaudia Zakrzewska, aged 32, outside the Inca nightclub in Argyll Street, Soho, at 4:30 am on April 19.
Initially charged with attempted murder, Carrington’s charge was elevated to murder following Ms. Zakrzewska’s passing on April 25. Carrington, residing on Broadfield Road in Manchester, appeared at the Old Bailey via videolink from Bronzefield prison without legal representation during the plea hearing.
Although expressing hesitance about self-representation in the future, Carrington proceeded to give a plea during the hearing. She pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and a separate charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent towards security guard Anoush Chyche. There was no plea entered for a third charge related to driving with excess alcohol.
Regarding the choice of legal representation for the trial, Carrington stated, “This is my life. This is the toughest decision I have to make.” The trial is set to take place at the Old Bailey starting January 5, with pre-trial hearings scheduled for August 11 and October 9.
During the hearing, Carrington engaged directly with the judge and prosecutor, Crispin Aylett KC, taking notes on a large pad of paper. Judge Whitehouse remanded her into custody but stipulated her presence at the next hearing.
The defendant, known for her Instagram following under the handle RIELLEUK with over 365,000 followers, was part of the X Factor live finals in 2013 as a member of Miss Dynamix. Referred to as a “social media influencer” who frequents the United Arab Emirates, Carrington’s legal proceedings have drawn attention.
Klaudia Zakrzewska, known as Klaudiaglam on TikTok and Instagram, was the victim in this tragic incident.
