A 19-year-old has been arrested on suspicion of a bomb hoax offence after Birmingham's Utilita Arena was evacuated during a Peter Kay gig last night (May 1). Armed police descended onto the city centre arena as the comedian's act was cancelled just 45 minutes into his set.
Fans were evacuated from the music venue located in Brindleyplace. Key canal routes around the arena were sealed off but have since reopened. Initially, West Midlands Police reported that a "potential suspicious bag" had been found. The teenager was arrested, and the venue was searched by firearm officers and the force's dog unit.
In a new update issued this morning, the force confirmed that "no items of a suspicious nature were found." The suspect remains in custody as enquiries continue. A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "Following searches of the Utilita Arena last night no items of a suspicious nature were found. A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a bomb hoax offence and remains in custody this morning as our enquiries continue. We're grateful to everyone for their co-operation and understanding. As always our priority is the safety of the public."
A spokesman for the Utilita Arena stated: "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 customers and our colleagues is our highest priority. We can confirm everyone was safely evacuated and that the venue is secure. Ticket holders will be contacted directly in due course."
Peter Kay is scheduled to perform again at the venue tonight. BirminghamLive has contacted Utilita Arena for comment on whether the show will go ahead.
