One Year Since Tragedy at O2 Academy Brixton
Today, Friday 15 December, marks a heartbreaking anniversary. One year ago, 33-year-old Rebecca Ikumelo and 23-year-old security guard Gaby Hutchinson lost their lives at the O2 Academy Brixton during a Nigerian artist Asake concert. A 22-year-old woman injured in the chaos still remains in hospital in a very serious condition.
Families Plead for Answers
Rebecca, a devoted mother of two, was among thousands enjoying the gig when disaster struck. Gaby was working security that night. Their families met at New Scotland Yard on 13 December to honour their memory and back a new police appeal">police appeal for information.
Anthony Ikumelo, Rebecca’s father: “Rebecca was a caring, loving person who cared for everyone in the community. This tragedy has left a large hole in our hearts that cannot be filled.
We urge anyone with information about that night to come forward so those responsible can be found.”
Kelsey Hutchinson, Gaby’s sister: “Our lives will never be what they used to be. We have gaps and are trying to find a new normal. Without answers from the investigation, we’re still waiting and struggling to understand why.
No one should ever go to a concert and not come home.”
Detectives Hunt for Crucial Witnesses
A dedicated team of detectives have poured over hundreds of hours of CCTV, taken more than 500 witness statements, and seized over 5,000 pieces of evidence in the past year. Despite their relentless efforts, many questions remain unanswered.
Detective Chief Inspector Nigel Penney, leading the inquiry, has just released images of 13 people he urgently wants to speak to.
DCI Penney said: “We are focused on uncovering exactly what happened that tragic evening — how Rebecca and Gaby lost their lives and why a young woman is still seriously injured a year later.
I thank everyone who has helped so far by sharing footage or providing information. We owe it to the families to find the truth and follow the evidence wherever it leads.
Thousands were at the venue that night. If you recognise anyone in these images or were filming the event, please come forward now. Your information could be vital.”
How You Can Help
- Got footage or info? Upload it securely here.
- Call the investigation team on 020 7321 9425.
- Want to stay anonymous? Contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit Crimestoppers-uk.org.
This tragic anniversary is a stark reminder: no one should fear losing a loved one at a night out. Help bring justice for Rebecca, Gaby, and the injured woman. Speak up now.
