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Tragedy at Brixton Academy: Woman Dead, Two Critical After Crowd Crush
Rebecca Ikumelo, 33, from Newham, east London, died on Saturday morning following a horrific crowd crush at Brixton Academy on Thursday night. Two other women, aged 21 and 23, remain critically ill in hospital.
Eight people were hospitalised after chaos erupted during a gig by Afrobeat star Asake. Police were called amid reports of “a large number of people attempting to force entry” to the venue.
Afrobeat Star Asake Cancels Gig
Nigerian musician Asake stopped his set after just three songs. He shared his heartbreak on Instagram, saying: “My heart is with those who were injured.” After Rebecca’s death, he added, “I am devastated by the news and have spoken with the victim’s family. I could never have imagined this happening.”
Asake’s team is awaiting a full debrief from venue management and police to understand exactly what happened. He urged anyone with information to contact the Metropolitan Police.
Met Police Launch Urgent Investigation
The Metropolitan Police are cracking down on the case, reviewing “vast” amounts of social media and police bodycam footage. Chief Superintendent Colin Wingrove vowed a thorough investigation: “Rebecca’s family and friends will have our full support and we are determined to uncover the truth behind Thursday’s disaster.”
MP Demands Answers on Security Failures
Labour MP Florence Eshalomi slammed the venue’s handling of the event. “It’s clear ticketing and security did not perform as they should,” she said. “We need answers and urgent measures to prevent this happening again.”
Ms Eshalomi visited the venue on Saturday and called the incident “deeply concerning” — turning what should’ve been a celebration into a nightmare.
Independent Review Underway
The crowd crush has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which is reviewing all footage from the incident. Asake, real name Ahmed Ololade, was recently nominated for BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2023 award, spotlighting rising UK music stars.
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