Instagram influencer Klaudia Zakrzewska – also known by her handle Klaudiaglam – has died after she was in collision with a car outside a nightclub in Soho.
The star from Essex, also a model, was in a critical condition in hospital after she was hit in the early hours of Sunday morning (April 19) on Argyll Street. Gabrielle Carrington, 29, X Factor finalist, appeared in court on Tuesday accused of attempting to murder her fellow content creator Klaudia, 32, outside the Inca nightclub.
Police had charged Carrington, of Broadfield Road, Manchester, with attempted murder, grievous bodily harm with intent, actual bodily harm, dangerous driving and drink driving on Monday night.
A 58-year-old man suffered life-changing injures following the incident, and a woman in her 30s was treated for minor injuries to her wrist.
Following Ms Zakrzewska’s death, the charge of attempted murder will be increased to murder, the Metropolitan Police confirmed.
Carrington did not enter any pleas during the hearing and will next appear at the Old Bailey on May 19. Detective Chief Inspector Alison Foxwell, who is leading the investigation, said: “We would like to express our deepest sympathies to Klaudia’s family and friends in light of this tragic update.
“Our thoughts are also with everyone impacted by this incident. We recognise that this case has generated significant interest and discussion on social media; however, we would urge the public to refrain from further speculation.”
She added: “We also ask that people do not share graphic footage out of respect for Klaudia’s loved ones and for those who have been injured. The circulation of such material could also undermine our ongoing criminal investigation and potentially prejudice future court proceedings.”
Ms Zakrzewska, who was born in Poland, has 258,000 followers on Instagram. Nearly £18,000 has been crowdfunded for her treatment and her family’s legal fees. The GoFundMe, said to be set up by her mother, said: “If at any time things take a turn for the worst, additional funds will go towards funeral costs and continuous support for the family.”
Her mother, Kinga, said on the page: “Those who know me understand how much I love my daughter and what a special bond we have, and I cannot give up on my baby girl.”
She added: “Anyone who knew my gorgeous daughter knows how truly wonderful she is. She has touched so many people with her pure heart and kindness, and she deserves every chance to keep fighting.”
Carrington made it to the X Factor live finals in 2013 as one of the three members of Miss Dynamix and now has more than 365,000 followers on Instagram under the handle RIELLEUK.