Peter Kay Show Chaos: Teenager Charged Over Bomb Hoax Scare
A 19-year-old man, Omar Majed, has been charged with a bomb hoax that caused the evacuation of Birmingham's Utilita Arena during a Peter Kay performance. The show was halted after a report of a suspicious bag, though no suspicious items were ultimately found. Police have confirmed public safety as the priority, with future shows proceeding as planned.
A live comedy performance by Peter Kay at the Utilita Arena Birmingham was abruptly halted and the venue evacuated after a report of a potentially suspicious bag on Friday evening. The incident led to West Midlands Police taking a 19-year-old man into custody, who has since been charged in connection with the events.
On Saturday, West Midlands Police confirmed that Omar Majed, 19, of Washwood Heath, Birmingham, has been charged with false communications relating to a bomb hoax. Majed has been remanded to appear before magistrates in Birmingham on May 4.
The evacuation order was issued after a report of a suspicious bag being left in the area around the arena. Following extensive searches by police, nothing suspicious was found, and authorities expressed gratitude for the public's cooperation and understanding, reiterating that public safety remains their highest priority.
Audience members present at the show described a swift and unexpected turn of events. Approximately 45 minutes into his performance, Peter Kay was seen being pulled from the stage by event staff. The crowd was then asked to leave the venue without a clear explanation initially, leading to some confusion and even speculation that it might be part of the show.
Steve Aspinall, an audience member, recounted seeing two individuals approach Peter Kay on stage, after which Kay and the staff member quickly departed. Miranda Richardson, 52, a publican from Northampton, echoed this, stating, "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.”
The Utilita Arena Birmingham released a statement confirming the evacuation was a precautionary measure based on police advice. They emphasized that the safety and security of their customers and colleagues are paramount, ensuring everyone was safely evacuated and the venue was secure. The arena also confirmed that subsequent Peter Kay shows, including the one on Saturday night, proceeded as planned after West Midlands Police were satisfied with the security measures in place. Ticket holders from the disrupted Friday show were informed that they would be contacted regarding their tickets.