Gabrielle Carrington murder trial set for January after legal deadline

Gabrielle Carrington, a former X Factor contestant, will stand trial on 5 January 2027 for the murder of Klaudia Zakrzewska. The 32-year-old died on 25 April 2026, six days after being struck by a car outside the Inca nightclub in Soho. Carrington, 29, appeared at the Old Bailey on 10 August 2026 and was given until 17 August to confirm her legal representation.

Prosecutors allege that Carrington drove a car that lurched forward and hit Zakrzewska on 19 April. The court heard that Carrington was not represented by a barrister during her appearance. She told the court it would be "crazy" to represent herself and assured the judge she would secure legal counsel by the deadline.

Additional charges and injuries

Carrington also faces a second charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. The victim, Anoush Chyche, a security guard in his 50s, suffered injuries described by prosecutors as "life-changing". Carrington has already entered a not guilty plea to both charges.

The Old Bailey heard that Carrington has a significant social media following, with over 365,000 followers on Instagram under the handle RIELLEUK. She rose to prominence as part of the girl group Miss Dynamix during the 2013 X Factor live finals.

What happens next

Carrington must confirm her legal representation by 17 August 2026. If she fails to do so, the court may appoint a barrister on her behalf or proceed with the trial without her legal counsel. The trial is expected to last several weeks, with the jury set to hear evidence from witnesses, including those present at the scene on 19 April.