Mother of Two Dies in Brixton O2 Crowd Crush After Asake Gig
Rebecca Ikumelo, 33, from Newham, has tragically died following a chaotic crowd crush at the O2 Brixton Academy. The incident occurred during a Nigerian artist Asake concert on Thursday, December 15, when around 3,000 people – many without tickets – stormed the venue on Stockwell Road.
Two Women Remain Critical, Eight Hospitalised
Alongside Rebecca’s death, two women aged 21 and 23 remain in critical condition, with eight people hospitalised in total. The Metropolitan Police Service is investigating, reviewing disturbing social media footage from the night. So far, a woman has been arrested for assaulting a police officer, and the police watchdog, the IOPC, is examining allegations including an officer apparently pushing a member of the public. The Met insists there is “no evidence of misconduct.”
Heartbreaking Final Video Shows Rebecca’s Last Moments
The day before the tragedy, Rebecca posted a touching YouTube video titled MY KIDS BEDTIME ROUTINE | AUTISM AWARENESS. She appeared in festive pyjamas, decorating a Christmas tree with her children and talking about their nightly routine. Just days earlier, she had taken her kids to see Santa Claus.
“This photo was taken the day I last saw Rebecca,” author Toni Tone wrote. “She was a stunning woman who exuded positivity and was dedicated to being the best version of herself for her children. She also contributed significantly to raising awareness of autism spectrum disorder. My thoughts are with her family.”
Tributes Flood In from Fans and Officials
Nigerian star Asake, whose concert was cut short by the chaos, voiced his devastation: “I am devastated by the news that Rebecca Ikumelo, who was in a critical condition since Thursday, has sadly passed away. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family at this difficult time. Please keep her family in our thoughts and prayers.”
London Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed sorrow at the scene: “I am heartbroken by the tragic death of Rebecca Ikumelo – who has very sadly died following the awful events on Thursday night in Brixton. Rebecca had her entire life ahead of her. I extend my condolences to her family and loved ones on behalf of all Londoners.”
Chief Superintendent Colin Wingrove added: “We are thinking of all affected after seeing upsetting images on social media. An urgent investigation is underway with cordons in place while officers continue their work.”
Police Appeal for Witnesses to Speak Up
With around 4,000 people at the venue, police are calling on anyone with information or footage to come forward. They have launched an online submission page for photos and videos. Witnesses are urged to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 6725/15Dec.
Asake, nominated for BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2023 award, had warned fans not to attend without tickets. The concert was the final night of a sold-out three-date run at the 4,921-seat venue.
The Academy Music Group, which runs the Brixton venue, said: “We are deeply saddened by the news of Rebecca Ikumelo’s tragic death. Our heartfelt condolences go to her family and friends. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this heartbreaking news.”
