Brixton Academy’s license under review following deadly crush at Asake concert

Lambeth Council are undertaking a review of legendary music venue Brixton Academy’s licence, following the deaths of two people after a crush at an Asake concert last week.

On Tuesday (December 20), the Metropolitan Police submitted an application for a “Summary Licence Review”, and the Licensing Sub-Committee of Lambeth Council will meet today to discuss measures to take.

It follows the tragic death of 23-year-old Gaby Hutchinson, a security guard at the venue, who passed away in hospital on Monday night from injuries sustained during the crush at Afrobeats musician Asake’s gig, which was called off during his performance.

She was the second victim to die after the incident, following Rebecca Ikumelo, a 33-year-old mother of two’s death on Saturday. A third person remains in a critical condition in hospital.

In a statement, Lambeth Council wrote: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Rebecca Ikummelo and Gaby Hutchinson who lost their lives, as well as with those who remain in hospital and those suffering the trauma of witnessing such distressing scenes at one of our borough’s live music venues.

“The venue is currently closed and we are set to undertake an urgent, in-depth review of its licence, which covers the legal conditions it must meet to run, including its public safety arrangements. This follows the Met Police submitting an application for a ‘Summary License Review’ On Tuesday,” it continued.

“The council’s Licensing Sub-Committee will meet on Thursday, December 22 to consider a immediate measures that need taking in relation to the venue, ahead of a full review of the premises’ licence which must be completed within 28-days.

“The interim measures can include changes to the condition of the premises licence such as restricting the venue’s capacity, extra stewarding, stopping alcohol sales or the suspension of the venue’s licence. This review will be part of ongoing efforts to both seek answers and ensure that such an incident never happens again.”

There is also a separate criminal investigation being undertaken by the Met Police. Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley told the BBC that they were trying to determine “if there are any criminal liabilities involved.”

For anyone with any information or evidence, an online page has been set up for anyone to submit to the Metropolitan Police. Click here to visit the website.

Isaac Muk is Mixmag’s Digital Intern, follow him on Twitter