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Asake and Brixton Academy comment after one woman dies following last week’s crowd crush incident
By Chris Cooke | Published on Monday 19 December 2022
Both Asake and the Brixton Academy issued statements on Saturday after it was confirmed that one of the people hospitalised after the crowd crush that occurred during the artist’s show at the London venue on Thursday evening had died.
Eight concert-goers were hospitalised following the crowd crush incident, which seemingly occurred after a number of people without tickets for the sell-out show tried to force their way into the Brixton Academy building. Police initially said that four of those hospitalised were in a critical condition, although subsequently revised that down to three.
It was then confirmed on Saturday morning that Rebecca Ikumelo – aged 33 from Newham, East London – had died from the injuries she sustained. Police added that two other women, aged 21 and 23, remain in a critical condition.
Responding to that news, Asake himself said in a statement on Twitter: “I am devastated by the news that Rebecca Ikumelo, who was in a critical condition since Thursday, has sadly passed away. My sincerest condolences to her loved ones at this time. Let us please keep her family in our prayers. I have spoken to them and will continue to do so”.
“I am overwhelmed with grief and could never have imagined anything like this happening”, he added. “My team and I are still awaiting the full debrief back from the venue management and the police to determine what exactly led to all the disruption caused and ultimately to Rebecca’s passing”.
With the investigation ongoing into what led to Thursday’s tragic events, Asake’s statement concluded: “If you have any relevant information relating to this please do reach out to the Metropolitan Police”. A website has been set up by police for anyone who can provide such information.
A separate statement from the venue – which is currently officially know as the O2 Academy Brixton, of course – said: “All at O2 Academy Brixton and Academy Music Group are deeply saddened by the news of the tragic death of Rebecca Ikumelo. We send our heartfelt condolences to Rebecca’s family and friends, and our thoughts are with everyone affected by this devastating news at this extremely difficult time”.
London mayor Sadiq Khan also issued a statement, saying: “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 whole life ahead of her and on behalf of all Londoners, I would like to extend my condolences to her family and loved ones”.
He added: “My thoughts remain with everyone affected by this dreadful incident. It’s vital that the investigation into what happened concludes as soon as possible. City Hall are in contact with venues and authorities across London to ensure nothing like this happens again”.
