The heartbroken family of a social media influencer who died after she was allegedly mowed down by an X Factor finalist have said she "touched many hearts".
Klaudia Zakrzewska – known as Klaudiaglam on Instagram – passed away on Saturday following the horror smash on Argyll Street, Soho, six days earlier.
The 32-year-old's heartbroken family revealed they spent the week keeping vigil by her hospital bedside in a “living hell”.
They told The Sun she was declared “brain dead” after the horrific incident.
They added: “Klaudia touched many hearts and we are all in agony.”
Former X Factor finalist Gabrielle Carrington, 29, appeared in court on Tuesday accused of trying to kill Ms Zakrzewska outside the Inca nightclub.
The attempted murder charge will be increased to murder after Ms Zakrzewska’s death, the Metropolitan Police said on Saturday.
Carrington, of Broadfield Road, Manchester, is also accused of dangerous driving, being nearly twice the drink-drive limit and causing injuries to two other people – a third woman and a security guard – who were also hit by her Mercedes.
A 58-year-old man suffered life-changing injuries after being hit by the car.
She 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.
Carrington – described in court as “social media influencer” who makes regular trips to the United Arab Emirates – made a heart sign with her hands towards friends and family in the packed public gallery as she was led out of the dock and back to the cells.
She did not enter any pleas during the hearing and will next appear at the Old Bailey on May 19.
Family and friends of Ms Zakrzewska also attended the court hearing.
More than £21,000 had been crowdfunded for Ms Zakrzewska’s 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.”
Footage of the incident circulating online shows a woman getting into a black car before it surges forward, striking Ms Zakrzewska who goes under the vehicle.
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.”
