Comedian Peter Kay's live performance at the Utilita Arena Birmingham was abruptly halted on Friday evening after security personnel discovered a potential suspicious bag near the venue. The audience was evacuated as a precaution, and a 19-year-old man was taken into custody by West Midlands police.
Evacuation and Police Response
West Midlands police confirmed that they were assisting with the evacuation following the discovery of the bag. In a statement, the force said: "We are assisting with an evacuation at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham after a potential suspicious bag was found. A 19-year-old man is in custody and as a precaution the site is currently subject of a search. We will provide further updates when we can."
Audience Accounts
Attendees reported that Kay was pulled from the stage approximately 45 minutes into his set. Steve Aspinall, who attended with his wife, described the scene: "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," Aspinall said.
Miranda Richardson, a 52-year-old publican from Northampton, noted the swiftness of the event: "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."
Arena Statement
The Utilita Arena Birmingham issued a statement emphasizing safety: "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."
The venue confirmed that ticket holders would be contacted regarding future arrangements, but did not specify whether the incident would affect the following day's scheduled show.
