Woman stabbed to death at Notting Hill Carnival while carrying child dies

A woman who was stabbed at the Notting Hill Carnival has sadly died.

Cher Maximen, 32, was attacked at the event with her young child on Sunday, August 25, and was hospitalized in critical condition.

Despite the best efforts of medical staff, Cher died on the morning of August 31, the Metropolitan Police said.

Police said 41-year-old chef Mussie Imnetu also died from injuries sustained at the event.

Mr Imnetu was found unconscious with a head injury outside Dr Power's restaurant in Queensway at around 11.20pm on Monday.

Detectives from the Metropolitan Police's Specialist Crime Command have arrested 20-year-old Shakiel Thibou from London in connection with the death of Ms Maximen.

He was charged with attempted murder and appeared before Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday morning before being remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on Wednesday 25 September.

Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila of the Metropolitan Police Homicide Squad, who is leading the investigation, said: “My thoughts are with Cher’s family as they come to terms with this terrible loss.

“They are supported by specialist officials and we will ensure that this support continues.

“Cher was at the carnival with her young child. We have been in close contact with our local partners and Cher's family since shortly after this incident to ensure that the child is safe and cared for.”

The couple's deaths came after police previously said eight people were stabbed and 334 people were arrested during the incident.

Commander Charmain Brenyah, the Met's spokesperson for the Carnival, said: “The news of Cher's tragic death is devastating for her family, the wider community and everyone involved in running the Notting Hill Carnival.

“Carnival is meant to bring people together for a positive celebration. The fact that it ended with the tragic loss of life and other serious acts of violence will sadden everyone involved.”

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “It is heartbreaking that Cher Maximen and Mussie Imnetu have died after being attacked in separate incidents over the bank holiday weekend.

“My thoughts are with their families and friends at this truly terrible time.

“This violence is shocking, totally unacceptable and a betrayal of the values ​​that the (Notting Hill) Carnival was founded to celebrate.”

According to police, 50 officers were injured in the incident and most of the arrests were for possession of offensive weapons or drug offenses.

Carnival is an annual celebration of Caribbean heritage, diversity, arts and culture and has been taking place for more than 50 years.

The main parade takes place on Monday and is described by the organizers as the highlight of the carnival with a “party atmosphere”.