O2 Academy Brixton: The 12 men Met Police detectives want to identify after fatal crush

Detectives investigating a crushing incident at the O2 Academy Brixton that left two dead are appealing to identify 12 people.

On Monday the venue announced it would be reopening, but the investigation continues into the circumstances behind the tragedy.

On December 15 2022, 33-year-old Rebecca Ikumelo and 23-year-old security staff member Gaby Hutchinson lost their lives.

The fatal crush occured as thousands of people attended Brixton Academy to watch Nigerian artist Asake.

DCI Nigel Penney said in December: “We remain focused on establishing exactly what happened that tragic evening, how Rebecca and Gaby came to lose their lives and why a young woman remains in hospital in a very serious condition a year later.

“I am grateful to those who have already helped by either speaking to police, sharing footage or providing us with valuable advice in terms of our investigation and the impact of this tragic event on people in Lambeth and beyond.

“We owe it to the families who have been left heartbroken and with many unanswered questions to establish the truth about what happened to their loved ones, and continue to follow the evidence where it takes us - without fear or favour.

“There were thousands of people at the venue that evening, and today I am releasing images of people I would like to speak to as I believe they have vital information. I urge them to get in touch as soon as possible."

Supporting the appeal for information in December, Rebecca’s father, Anthony Ikumelo, said: “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 who has information about what happened that night to come forward so that those responsible can be identified.”

Kelsey Hutchinson, Gaby's sister, said: “Our lives will never be what they used to be, we have gaps and it’s trying to find a new normal. Because we don't have the answers, we're still waiting for investigations to be completed, we're still in a situation where we don't know why. I think if we could get to that point, that might help us. No one should ever go to work and not come home.”

Footage and information can be provided to police via a dedicated page or telephone the investigating team on 020 7321 9425. To remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.