James Abiwon, 29, Killed by Falling Tree During Storm Boelo in London
James Abiwon, a 29-year-old tech sales executive, has been named as the driver killed when a tree fell onto his car during Storm Boelo in north London.
He was travelling along Dollis Road in Mill Hill at around 12.30pm on Sunday when the tree came down in high winds. Police, paramedics, firefighters and an air ambulance attended, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Family and friends have paid tribute to the University of Essex graduate, who had been preparing to celebrate his 30th birthday.
His cousin, Tyrrell Okolo, told Metro that Abiwon was devoted to his family and had achieved success in sales, football and music. He said his cousin had been named Business Development Representative of the Year at his company, played semi-professional football with Aldershot and mentored many people.
A padel tournament originally planned for his birthday will now take place in his memory, with proceeds going to his family.
Long-time friend Kwame Affum, 29, said he was struggling to comprehend the loss after playing padel with Abiwon on Friday, just two days before the fatal incident.
Tributes have also appeared on Abiwon’s Instagram page, where friends shared memories and messages mourning his death.
Chief Inspector Guy Ellwood, from the North West Command Unit, expressed sympathy for his loved ones. Police have informed his next of kin and are working with the local authority and coroner to establish the circumstances surrounding his death.
