Man Charged with Murder of Human Rights Lawyer Annabel Rook After Hackney House Explosion
A 44-year-old man has been charged with the murder of human rights lawyer Annabel Rook, who died following a stabbing and gas explosion at her home in Hackney, East London.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Clifton George, of Dumont Road, Hackney, was charged on Sunday, 22 June with murder and arson with intent to endanger life.
George is due to appear at Thames Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 23 June.
What Happened?
Emergency services were called to Dumont Road at 4:57am on Tuesday, 17 June following reports of a gas explosion with a person trapped inside.
On arrival, officers discovered 46-year-old Annabel Rook with stab wounds. Despite the efforts of police, London Ambulance Service, and London Fire Brigade, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The explosion caused extensive damage to the terraced property. Ms. Rook’s two young children were not in the home at the time.
A man known to her was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder. He was taken to hospital for treatment for slash injuries, discharged, and later charged after being transferred into police custody.
Statement from Police
Acting Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke, head of policing for Central East Basic Command Unit, said:
“Our thoughts continue to remain with the family and friends of Annabel as they navigate this devastating loss.
We ask that the public refrain from speculation and respect their privacy at this time, and we thank the Hackney community for their ongoing support.”
Tributes to Annabel Rook
Annabel Rook was a well-respected human rights lawyer and co-founder of MamaSuze, a charity supporting survivors of gender-based violence and displacement. She also worked in refugee camps in Africa and was widely admired for her dedication to vulnerable communities.
Her family described her as “a truly wonderful woman” who “gave her life to helping the vulnerable and disadvantaged.”
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command continue to investigate the circumstances of the incident. A forensic investigation into the gas explosion is also underway.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police via 101 quoting CAD 952/17Jun, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.
