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Brian Coney
16 January 2023, 13:08

O2 Academy Brixton to remain shut for three months following fatal crowd crush

It comes a month after the tragic incident resulted in the death of two people

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The O2 Academy Brixton is to remain shut for three months following a fatal crowd crush last month.

It comes after two people died following a crowd crush at a show by afro-pop singer Asake on 15th December. Occurring when people who were outside the venue forced their way into the show, leading to overcrowding and the gig being cancelled midway through, the crush resulted in the death of 33-year-old attendee Rebecca Ikumelo and Gaby Hutchinson, who was working as a security contractor on the night. A number of others were taken to hospital with injuries, with one still in critical condition.

According to a new report by BBC News, Academy Music Group (AMG) - which runs the venue - said it would remain closed while several investigations into the tragedy continue.

On 22nd December, it was revealed the venue's licence had been suspended by Lambeth Council's licensing sub-committee until today, 16th January. They are due to meet today for a a full review of the site's licence.

In a statement, the Met Police - who are leading the main investigation - has said the closure extension "allow time to work with the venue to facilitate a safe reopening".

In a statement, a spokesperson for AMG said: “O2 Academy Brixton recognises the gravity of the events which occurred on the night of 15th December 2022 and expresses its sincere condolences to the families of those who died during the tragic incident and its genuine concerns for anyone affected by it.

“The licence holder (AMG) is committed to understanding what happened and co-operating with the various investigations that are under way including providing full cooperation to the police in the conduct of their inquiries.”