A former X Factor finalist faces charges of attempted murder after allegedly striking an influencer with her car in Soho, leaving the victim in a life-threatening condition.
Court Appearance and Charges
Riell Carrington, known online as @RIELLEUK with over 365,000 Instagram followers, appeared in court charged with attempted murder, causing grievous bodily harm with intent, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, dangerous driving, and drink-driving. The 31-year-old from Broadfield Road, Manchester, entered no pleas during the hearing.
Prosecutors allege she was nearly twice the legal drink-drive limit, with breath tests showing 61 microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres. The judge remanded her in custody until her next appearance at the Old Bailey on May 19.
As she left the dock, Carrington made a heart sign to supporters in the public gallery. Family and friends of the victim also attended the proceedings.
Incident Details
The collision occurred on a busy Soho street near the London Palladium theatre. Online footage captures a woman entering a black Mercedes before it accelerates sharply, hitting influencer Klaudia Zakrzewska, who ended up under the vehicle.
Ms Zakrzewska, a TikTok and Instagram star in her 30s known as ‘Klaudiaglam’, remains in hospital in a critical state, according to Metropolitan Police updates.
Two others suffered injuries: security guard Anoush Chyche, in his 50s, sustained life-changing harm classified as grievous bodily harm, while Latisha Armstrong faced actual bodily harm after being struck. A man unlocking his e-scooter was among those hit.
Background and Official Reminder
Carrington reached the X Factor live finals in 2013 as part of girl group Miss Dynamix.
David Malone, deputy chief crown prosecutor for CPS London North, emphasized: “Proceedings against the defendant are active, and she has the right to a fair trial. It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”
