A man has died in Birmingham city centre following a cardiac arrest, with police uncovering evidence of drug-taking at a venue he had attended earlier that night. The incident occurred at the Arcadian Centre on Hurst Street in the early hours of Monday, May 11.
Police investigation
West Midlands Police confirmed that officers forced entry into the Arcadian City venue after learning the man had been there before his collapse. Inside, they discovered a plate with straws, a card, and white residue powder that tested positive for illicit drugs. Cigarette stubs were found on tables and floors, and smoke detectors were covered with red plastic sleeves. A fire exit call point was also obscured by a taped-over basket.
Premises licence review
Superintendent Karl Thomas stated that the force has applied for a review of the premises licence, citing serious concerns about the operation and promotion of licensing objectives. The venue, which advertises karaoke, VR games, and an arcade, claimed the event was a private party. Thomas noted that the designated premises supervisor informed licensing officers of this.
West Midlands Ambulance Service reported receiving a call at 2:46 am and sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer, and a trauma doctor. Despite life support efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. A police spokesman said enquiries are ongoing.
When contacted by BirminghamLive, a woman at Arcadian City declined to comment, directing inquiries to the police.
