The family of Annabel Rook, a woman who tragically lost her life in a gas explosion at her home, has fondly remembered her as a “beautiful daughter, sister, friend, and mother.” Annabel, 46, was found fatally injured at her residence in Dumont Road, Stoke Newington, north London, shortly before 5:00 BST on Tuesday. Her grieving family expressed their struggle to comprehend this devastating loss in a statement released through the Metropolitan Police. A 44-year-old man was apprehended at the scene on suspicion of murder, taken to the hospital, discharged, and then placed into police custody, according to a spokesperson from the Met. Two young children, aged seven and nine, were also hospitalized as a precaution, though they were not believed to have been present during the explosion.
Annabel had dedicated her efforts to a social enterprise she co-founded called MamaSuze, which aids refugee and migrant women, particularly those fleeing domestic violence, through art and drama initiatives. Her family described Annabel as a remarkable woman who impacted numerous lives with her compassionate spirit. They highlighted her selfless dedication to supporting vulnerable individuals, whether in African refugee camps or through MamaSuze in London, to empower survivors of displacement and gender-based violence.
Detectives from the Metropolitan Police are actively investigating Annabel’s tragic death as a murder case. Detectives have described the incident as “extremely tragic,” while urging anyone with information to come forward. Stay updated with BBC Radio London for the latest news, and connect with BBC London on social media. Ideas and suggestions can be shared by emailing hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk.
