Attacks at Notting Hill Carnival leave two dead

UK police announced Saturday that two people have died following separate attacks that occurred during 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 had previously worked under celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay—had been hospitalized since the incidents.

London’s Metropolitan Police have charged two individuals suspected of carrying out each assault.

Earlier this week, the police disclosed that eight people were stabbed and hundreds arrested during the annual celebration of British Afro-Caribbean culture, which takes place on the streets of Notting Hill and surrounding areas.

Cher Maximen, 32, was stabbed in the groin last Sunday in broad daylight as she tried to break up a fight. She passed away on Saturday morning. Maximen had been attending the carnival with her three-year-old daughter, along with other family members and friends.

A 20-year-old man was remanded in custody by a London court on Wednesday after being charged with her attempted murder. The Met stated that this charge would now be “reviewed” by prosecutors following Maximen’s death.

In a separate incident, chef Mussie Imnetu died late Friday after being found unconscious with a head injury on Monday night outside a west London restaurant crowded with carnival-goers. The 41-year-old, who was born in Sweden and was visiting the UK on business from Dubai where he lives and works, is not believed to have attended the carnival, according to police.

A 31-year-old man appeared in court on Friday charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent, but police indicated that this charge will also be reviewed following Imnetu’s death.

“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, along with other incidents of serious violence, will sadden everyone involved.”

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