A former contestant from the television show X Factor has refuted allegations of causing the death of a social media personality by hitting her with a car in London.
Gabrielle Carrington, 29, supposedly collided with Klaudia Zakrzewska, 32, outside the Inca nightclub in Argyll Street, Soho, around 4:30 am on April 19.
Initially accused of attempted murder, Carrington’s charge was elevated to murder following Ms. Zakrzewska’s passing on April 25.
Appearing at the Old Bailey via video link from Bronzefield prison, Carrington chose to represent herself during the plea hearing, declining legal representation for the time being.
Despite her lack of legal counsel, Carrington entered a plea of not guilty to the murder charge and another charge of causing severe bodily harm with intent to security guard Anoush Chyche. She did not respond to a third charge of driving under the influence.
Expressing the difficulty of selecting her trial representation, Carrington emphasized the significance of the decision on her life.
The trial is scheduled to commence on January 5 at the Old Bailey, with pre-trial hearings set for August 11 and October 9 by Judge Sarah Whitehouse.
During the hearing, Carrington engaged directly with the judge and prosecutor, taking notes on a large notepad. She was remanded into custody but will be present at the next hearing.
Known for her significant social media presence with over 365,000 followers on Instagram under the username RIELLEUK, the defendant gained fame on X Factor in 2013 as part of the group Miss Dynamix. Described as a social media influencer who frequently travels to the United Arab Emirates, Carrington faces legal proceedings for the incident.
Ms. Zakrzewska, known as Klaudiaglam on TikTok and Instagram, tragically lost her life in the incident.