Police provided an update following an incident where comedian Peter Kay was abruptly taken off stage during a performance and the venue was evacuated due to a suspected bomb threat.
Eyewitnesses reported that two staff members approached Kay on stage about 45 minutes into the show, whispered to him, and then escorted him off stage.
West Midlands Police confirmed that a 19-year-old man was apprehended after a potential suspicious bag prompted the halt of the show at Utilita Arena in Birmingham on Friday night.
However, the police later announced that no suspicious items were found during searches at the arena, and the teenager was arrested on suspicion of making a bomb hoax and remains in custody as investigations continue.
In a statement, West Midlands Police expressed gratitude for the public’s cooperation and emphasized their ongoing commitment to public safety.
After the evacuation, a thorough search was conducted at the arena by law enforcement. Attendee Steve Aspinall described the scene, recalling how security personnel directed Kay off stage discreetly, which initially led some audience members to believe it was part of the show.
Miranda Richardson, a pub landlady from Northampton, described the swift and orderly evacuation process, where staff efficiently guided people out of the venue in response to the reported bag claim.
The situation, although initially confusing, was managed calmly, ensuring a quick and safe departure for all attendees.