Renewed police appeal six months after crush at O2 Brixton Academy which killed Gravesend security guard Gaby Hutchinson
Published: 08:37, 15 June 2023
Updated: 15:22, 15 June 2023
Relatives of a Kent security guard who died during a crush at the O2 Academy Brixton have renewed their appeal for witnesses six months on from the tragic day.
Gaby Hutchinson, from Gravesend, was one of two people killed following a crush at the concert venue on December 15 last year, which also left many seriously injured.
Gaby’s mother Christina Hutchinson and sister Nina Hutchinson, speaking together, said: “Mum and Dad have lost their youngest baby, and it’s not something you should ever have to do, putting your daughter to rest before you.
“As siblings we have lost growing old together. We have lost that because of what happened that night. It has been stolen.
“Christmas will never be the same again. And Gaby’s birthday was New Year’s Eve so we really don’t want to be celebrating New Year’s Eve any more.
“We want to say to anyone who was there, even if they think they have a minor piece of information, something that they think is irrelevant, could they please, please contact the police.
“It could be that little bit that fits the puzzle and helps find some answers. It would make a difference to us as a family, because we just need answers. No one should ever go to work and not come home.”
Over the past six months, officers have reviewed hundreds of hours of CCTV, social media footage and police body worn video, as well as interviewing a significant number of witnesses and reviewing forensic evidence.
Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Nigel Penney said: “Six months on from this tragic incident, we remain absolutely committed to finding out what happened that night.
“We offer our heartfelt support to the victims’ families as they pay tribute and remember their loved ones.
“It is of the utmost importance that we work out why the surge happened, for the families of those who never returned home, and those who were injured and traumatised.”
Police continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward.
“We know there were thousands of people there and that many will have seen what happened. Footage shared on social media immediately after the incident showed dozens of people filming on their phones.
“We are grateful to everyone who has come forward so far, but we still need more information from those who were there that evening.
“Please do not assume we have the information or images you are in possession of. We are especially interested in video footage from that evening.
“If you were there and recorded or saw anything, please think of the families who are struggling to come to terms with their loss, and share what you saw with my team who are waiting to hear from you.
“We need your help to establish what happened so that we can provide answers to the families and loved ones of those who were so seriously, or fatally injured.”
The crush, which occured when ticketless fans tried to force their way into a show by Nigerian artist Asake, also killed London mum-of-two Rebecca Ikulmelo, 33, while a 21-year-old woman still remains in a serious condition in hospital.
You can get in touch with police by clicking on this link, where you can upload information and video content, or phone the Operation Wickmar investigation team direct on 0207 321 9425.
To stay anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit Crimestoppers-uk.org.
Gaby, who was 23, had been working at the event when she was seriously injured during the incident. She died in hospital four days later.
Speaking after the event, Gaby’s partner Phoebie Turley called for justice and said someone needed to be held accountable for the deaths.
The 25-year-old said: “Every action has a reaction and this consequence has come out of people turning up with no tickets or turning up trying to kick through a door.
“For what? What purpose did that serve? Because now you have killed innocent people.
“They did not deserve this. Justice needs to be served and someone needs to be found accountable for what happened. Not just for Gaby, but for Rebecca as well.”
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Keely Greenwood