Tragic Crowd Crush at Brixton O2 Academy Cuts Afro-Pop Gig Short
A chaotic crowd surge at Afro-pop star Asake’s Brixton O2 Academy concert ended in tragedy on December 15. Two fans, Rebecca Ikumelo, 33, and Gaby Hutchinson, 23, died after being crushed. A third victim remains in critical condition.
Police Call For Urgent Licence Review
In the aftermath, the Metropolitan Police have demanded a summary review of the venue’s premises licence from Lambeth Council. Notices have been posted outside the O2 Academy signaling the start of this emergency process.
A summary review fast-tracks a licence examination when serious crime or disorder is involved. It allows authorities to impose interim actions like suspending the licence, changing terms, or even revoking it before a full investigation concludes.
“We are shocked and saddened by the devastating incident in Brixton and are working to support our communities in the aftermath of this tragedy,” said Lambeth Council.
Detectives Probe Possible Criminal Liability
Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley confirmed detectives are investigating the fatal crush to determine whether criminal charges are warranted.
The police statement said: “We submitted a summary review application to Lambeth local authority on Tuesday.” The local authority will hold an urgent hearing on Thursday to decide on immediate licence actions.
Asake ‘Overwhelmed With Grief’
The singer Asake, who had to stop his gig amid the chaos, expressed being “overwhelmed with grief” over the deaths of his fans. The tragedy has rocked the music community and raised urgent questions about safety at live events.
The O2 Academy remains closed as Lambeth Council prepares an in-depth review of the venue’s licence and safety arrangements. The venue’s owner, the Academy Group, has been contacted but has yet to comment.
