London’s Metropolitan Police confirmed Saturday that two individuals had died following separate attacks at or near last weekend’s Notting Hill Carnival, one of the world’s largest street festivals.
The victims—a mother attending the event with her young child and a chef who once worked under celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay—had been hospitalized since the assaults. Police have since charged two individuals suspected of committing each attack.
The annual celebration of British Afro-Caribbean culture, held on the streets of Notting Hill and surrounding districts, witnessed several violent incidents.
Earlier this week, the Met revealed that eight people were stabbed and hundreds arrested during the carnival.
Cher Maximen, 32, was fatally stabbed in the groin in broad daylight last Sunday after attempting to break up a fight.
She succumbed to her injuries on Saturday morning. Maximen had been attending the carnival with her three-year-old daughter and other family members.
A 20-year-old man was remanded in custody on Wednesday after being charged with her attempted murder. Following Maximen’s death, police said the charge would be “reviewed” by prosecutors.
In a separate incident, chef Mussie Imnetu died late Friday after being found unconscious with a head injury outside a busy west London restaurant on Monday night. Imnetu, 41, was visiting the UK on business from Dubai, where he lives and works. According to police, he is not believed to have attended the carnival.
A 31-year-old man appeared in court Friday charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent in connection with Imnetu’s death. This charge will also be reviewed, police said.
“Carnival is about bringing people together in a positive celebration,” said Met Commander Charmain Brenyah in a statement.
“That it has ended with the tragic loss of life, among other incidents of serious violence, will sadden everyone involved.”
