Two Dead in Brixton Concert Crush – Venue Licence Under Immediate Review
Tragedy struck at a Brixton O2 Academy concert on December 15 when a massive crowd surge forced the show to be cut short. Afro-pop star Asake’s gig turned fatal as two fans were crushed to death and a third remains critically ill.
Victims and Investigation Details
Rebecca Ikumelo, 33, died in hospital the Saturday after the incident, and 23-year-old Gaby Hutchinson passed away two days later. A third victim is still fighting for their life. Outside the venue, notices have been posted announcing a summary review of the O2 Academy’s premises licence.
The Met Police have launched a criminal investigation into the crush to identify any criminal liability. Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley revealed that detectives are probing the tragic event, as the Met submitted a summary review request to Lambeth Council.
Summary Licence Review Could End Venue’s Operations
A summary review is a fast-track process police can trigger if they believe a venue is linked to serious crime or disorder. It allows the council to take immediate action, including suspending or revoking the licence.
- Change licence conditions
- Exclude licensable activities
- Remove the designated premises supervisor
- Suspend the licence for up to three months
- Revoke the licence entirely
The next step: a local authority hearing on Thursday where the venue’s licence fate will be debated.
Community and Council React to Horror
Lambeth Council expressed shock and grief over the deadly crush and vowed a thorough investigation. Their statement read: “We are adamant that answers to why these heinous events occurred be found. The venue is currently closed, and we are planning an urgent, in-depth review of its licence, including its public safety arrangements.”
Meanwhile, Asake said he was “overwhelmed with grief” after hearing of his fan’s death. The Academy Group, which runs the O2 Academy, has been contacted but had yet to comment.
This horrific crush has sent shockwaves through the music community and sparked urgent calls for safer concert venues.
