Family describes Elizabeth line worker, killed in assault, as ‘most loving’

The family of an Elizabeth line employee, who passed away following an assault at an east London station, has described him as “the most loving person”. Jorge Ortega, aged 61, was transported to a hospital suffering from severe head injuries after British Transport Police (BTP) officers responded to reports of a serious assault at Ilford station around 20:50 GMT on Wednesday. He succumbed to his injuries on Friday. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, in a post on X, referred to Mr Ortega’s death as “absolutely tragic news” and further stated that “nobody should have to face any violence at work – and certainly not something as shocking as this”. Ayodele Jamgbadi, 28, residing at Kingston Road, Ilford, received a charge of grievous bodily harm related to the occurrence. A tribute from his family characterized Mr Ortega as “the kindest soul you could have the pleasure of meeting”. The tribute continued: “Everyone who has met our Dad or who has ever worked with him over the years will tell you this. “He was an amazing family man and would always put other people first. He loved his grandchildren, and in turn, they adored our Dad. “He was totally devoted to our Mum and loved her beyond what words can describe. “Having been together for over 38 years, he is an example of what a great man should be like and a role model that we highly look up to. “We can only hope to be like him. Dad is and will always be in our hearts.” The British Transport Police (BTP) stated its intention to seek an amendment to the indictment to account for Mr Ortega’s death. The RMT union identified Mr Ortega, a member, as a customer experience assistant employed by MTREL, the operator of the Elizabeth line. Mick Lynch, the general secretary, commented: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our member, who died following an attack while at work.”The whole union sends its condolences to their family, friends and colleagues at this awful time and everyone’s thoughts at RMT are with them.”We will keep a close eye on legal proceedings and will comment further in due course when it is appropriate.” MTREL indicated that Mr Ortega had been a “dedicated member of the railway community for 24 years”. Mike Bagshaw, the managing director of the transport operator, stated: “This is an unimaginable loss, and my heart goes out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this profoundly difficult time.”He was a valued member of our team, serving the railway community with dedication and kindness for more than two decades.”We are devastated that such a senseless act of violence has taken the life of one of our colleagues.”He has lost his life simply for carrying out his job, everyone has the right to feel safe and protected at work and this tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the unacceptable abuse faced by rail colleagues.” Andy Lord, London transport commissioner, remarked: “This was an appalling attack while our colleague was doing their job helping customers travel around London.”Everyone should be able to go about their day without fear or intimidation and it is unthinkable that someone could lose their life due to unprovoked violence while doing their job.”The safety and wellbeing of our colleagues is paramount, and we are fully supporting the British Transport Police with their investigation.” DCI Paul Attwell confirmed that specialist family liaison officers were providing support to the victim’s family. He added: “This was a horrific and tragic incident which has resulted in a man losing his life.”I would like to reassure the public that this is an isolated incident.” Mr Jamgbadi made an appearance at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Friday and was subsequently remanded in custody. Additional charges against him include affray and possession of a prohibited offensive weapon in a private place. His next court appearance is scheduled for Inner London Crown Court on 7 January.