Tributes Paid to Human Rights Lawyer Annabel Rook, Killed Before Gas Explosion Tore Through Her Hackney Home
The family of Annabel Rook, a much-loved human rights lawyer and mother-of-two, have paid tribute to her “truly wonderful” life after she was stabbed to death in her home before a gas explosion destroyed the property.
The 46-year-old was found fatally injured at her terraced house on Dumont Road in Hackney, North London, just before 5am on Tuesday, 17 June. Emergency services were initially called to the scene following reports of a gas explosion, only to discover that Annabel had been stabbed prior to the blast.
She was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. Her two children, aged seven and nine, were not in the property at the time and are safe.
A Life Devoted to Helping Others
Annabel’s family described her as a woman who dedicated her life to helping the vulnerable through both her legal work and charitable efforts.
We have lost our beautiful daughter, sister, friend and mother,” her family said in a heartfelt statement.
“Annabel was a truly wonderful woman. She touched the hearts of so many.”
She was the co-founder of MamaSuze, a London-based charity that supports women survivors of forced displacement and gender-based violence, running creative arts workshops and community-building initiatives. Annabel also worked extensively in refugee camps across Africa, driven by her belief that “the ability to play and create should be a fundamental human right.”
On her LinkedIn page, she had written:
“I have been working with marginalised and displaced people for over 20 years… I aim to enable people to be creative and help them find their voice.”
Investigation and Arrest
A 44-year-old man, known to the victim, was arrested on suspicion of murder. He had been taken to hospital for treatment and has since been discharged and remains in police custody.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that no one else is being sought in connection with the incident.
‘Like a Bomb Going Off’
Residents in the Stoke Newington neighbourhood reported hearing a deafening bang at around 5am.
“There was a ‘boom’ like a bomb going off,” said Bhikha Maisuria, 68, a neighbour.
“Glass was flying everywhere. It was horrific. The lady who died was very nice and looked like a great mother. We are all devastated.”
Images show the Victorian terraced home blackened and severely damaged by fire and the force of the blast. Floral tributes have since been placed outside the property by grieving friends and neighbours.
MamaSuze: ‘We Are Devastated’
The charity MamaSuze posted a tribute saying:
“We are devastated by the loss of our beloved co-founder.
Annabel was a force for good in the world, dedicating her life to supporting women survivors.
She brought art, creativity and joy to women fleeing violence and trauma. We are in a state of profound shock.”
Appeal for Privacy
Annabel’s family have asked for privacy as they come to terms with the tragedy, saying:
“We would really appreciate it if our privacy could be respected.”
In Memory
Annabel Rook is remembered not just for her work, but for the compassion, warmth and strength she brought to everyone around her — from legal chambers to war-torn refugee camps, and the East London community she called home.
