A mum-of-two killed in a crush outside a concert in London was known for her 'care, kindness and love', her family said.
Rebecca Ikulemo died this morning (December 17) following the incident on Thursday outside O2 Academy Brixton as Nigerian Afrobeats singer and songwriter Asake was performing.
The 33-year-old was one of three people badly hurt when ticketless fans tried to get into the show at the south London venue. The Metropolitan Police said Ms Ikumelo, from Newham, east London, died in hospital on Saturday, while two other women, 21 and 23, remain in a critical condition.
Read more:
Her family said in a statement: "Rebecca was a graduate of nursing. She was an adorable mother of two children who loved working with kids.
"She was well respected in the family for her care, kindness and love. Her parents call her Tosin (short for Oluwatosin) meaning ‘Lord is Worthy’."
Rebecca’s uncle, Temiope Olodo, said on Twitter: "My favourite niece, Rebecca Ikumelo, died today as a result of injuries sustained from [Asake's] concert. This is a great loss for the Olodo and Ikumelo family. I can't hold back my tears."
Earlier, Asake said he is 'devastated' and 'overwhelmed with grief' by Ms Ikumelo’s death. In a statement posted on Instagram, he said: "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. 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.
"If you have any relevant information relating to this please do reach out to the Metropolitan Police."
The Metropolitan Police said its 'urgent' investigation continues as specialist officers support Ms Ikumelo's family. Post-mortem tests will be done on Sunday.
Speaking at the scene on Friday, Chief Superintendent Colin Wingrove, policing commander for Lambeth and Southwark, said: "I’d like to extend my sympathies to all those who have been affected. Having seen some of the really upsetting images on social media, our thoughts are with them."
Scotland Yard previously said a woman was arrested for assaulting an officer over the incident and investigators were looking at footage on social media and from body worn cameras.
The concert was the third of three sold-out dates at the 4,921-standing capacity venue and concluded a run of UK dates.
Academy Music Group, which owns and runs music venues across the UK, said in a statement: "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."
READ MORE:
- Seriously injured man was 'screaming' and 'bleeding' in middle of quiet street after Bolton stabbing
- Why nurses in Greater Manchester are not striking as thousands set to walk out for the first time
- Terrified mum squirted in face with mystery substance by neighbour in 'petty' parking row
- Notorious Salford criminal going by nickname 'Stealthy' caught brokering sale of guns and heroin
- 'It was just a joke': Gym owner defends controversial billboard after vandals attack
