Annabel Rook, 46, was found stabbed after a gas explosion rocked her Stoke Newington home

A man has been charged with the murder of Annabel Rook, a respected social enterprise founder, after she was found fatally stabbed following a gas explosion at her home in Stoke Newington, north London.

Clifton George, 44, of Dumont Road, was also charged with arson with intent to endanger life. Emergency services were called at 04:57 BST on Tuesday to reports of a gas explosion at a property on Dumont Road. Fire crews and police arrived to find the front of the house blown out and Ms Rook critically injured inside.

Despite their efforts, 46-year-old Annabel Rook was pronounced dead at the scene. A subsequent post-mortem confirmed she died from stab wounds, prompting a murder investigation.

George, who was found at the scene with self-inflicted slash wounds, was taken to hospital before being discharged and charged. He appeared at Thames Magistrates’ Court and has been remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey on 25 June.

The explosion ripped through the property, sending wooden shutters, potted plants and shards of glass flying into the street. The bay window had been completely blown out, and the area was quickly cordoned off as six fire engines and around 40 firefighters tackled the incident.

Neighbours described being jolted awake by the blast, with some initially fearing a bomb had gone off. One local resident said: “It was like something out of a movie. The street lit up, and then there was just this eerie silence.”

Annabel Rook was more than just a resident of Dumont Road. She was the co-founder of Mama Suze CIC, a social enterprise dedicated to empowering refugee and migrant women. She had worked in refugee camps across Africa before launching the organisation in London, focusing on survivors of displacement and gender-based violence.

Her family, supported by Metropolitan Police liaison officers, issued a heart-wrenching tribute through authorities on Sunday:
“Annabel was a truly wonderful woman. She touched the hearts of so many. She gave her life to helping the vulnerable and the disadvantaged, whether it was in refugee camps in Africa or setting up Mama Suze in London. We are struggling to come to terms with this terrible tragedy.”

The Metropolitan Police have asked the public to avoid speculation while investigations continue. Acting Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke added: “This has been a deeply traumatic incident, and our thoughts are with Annabel’s family. We are grateful for the continued support of the Hackney community and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy at this time.”

The tragic case has prompted renewed discussions around domestic violence and mental health, with several community organisations issuing calls for increased resources to support at-risk individuals.

As the investigation continues, tributes have poured in for Ms Rook from friends, former colleagues, and community members. Many described her as “radiant,” “selfless,” and “utterly dedicated” to helping others.

The tragedy has not only left a community shaken but also taken from it one of its most committed and compassionate advocates.