Comedian Peter Kay was rushed off stage Friday evening at the Utilita Arena Birmingham after a bomb hoax led to the evacuation of the venue. A 19-year-old man has been charged in connection with the incident.
Evacuation and Arrest
The Utilita Arena Birmingham was evacuated on Friday night after a report of a potentially suspicious bag left in the area. West Midlands police took a 19-year-old man into custody. On Saturday, the force announced that Omar Majed, 19, of Washwood Heath, Birmingham, had been charged with false communications relating to a bomb hoax. He was remanded to appear before magistrates in Birmingham on 4 May.
Following searches, nothing suspicious was found. A police spokesperson said: "As always our priority is the safety of the public. We are grateful to everyone for their cooperation and understanding."
Audience Reactions
Audience members reported that Kay was pulled from the stage about 45 minutes into his performance. The crowd was asked to leave without being told what was happening. Steve Aspinall, attending with his wife, told the Press Association: "Two guys came on – one with a mic and headphones. One guy whispered to Peter Kay and then he and Peter Kay shot off down the side." He added that the audience was instructed to look for security guards and listen for announcements. "To be honest, I thought it was part of the show at first," said Aspinall.
Miranda Richardson, 52, a publican from Northampton, described the incident: "It was very swift. One minute [Kay's] on stage and the gig is great, then two of the event team walk on stage straight to him, quick word and he's ushered off."
Venue Statement
The arena said in a statement: "Utilita Arena Birmingham has been evacuated as a precaution on the advice of West Midlands police after a potential suspicious bag was found nearby. The safety and security of our customers and colleagues is our highest priority. We can confirm everyone was safely evacuated and that the venue is secure." Ticket holders will be contacted regarding the rescheduled show.
