Full Breakdown
Bomb Hoax Forces Evacuation of Peter Kay Comedy Show at Birmingham's Utilita Arena
5/3/2026, 7:56:33 AM
Evacuation Triggered by Suspected Bomb Hoax
On Friday night, a report of a suspicious bag prompted West Midlands Police to evacuate Utilita Arena during Peter Kay’s “Better Late Than Never” tour. The evacuation began four minutes after the show started, about 45 minutes into Kay’s set, when he was escorted off stage. Police searches found no dangerous item. Nineteen-year-old Omar Majed was later charged with false communications relating to a bomb hoax.
Background: Charitable Tour
Kay’s performance was part of a national tour donating all proceeds to twelve cancer charities. The Birmingham show was one of several UK dates, including Belfast, Liverpool, Sheffield and Leeds.
Timeline
- Friday ~20:00 – Kay starts his set.
- ~20:04 – A suspicious bag is reported; police order evacuation.
- ~20:05 – The arena is cleared and Kay is escorted off stage.
- Later that night – Searches find no dangerous item; police call it a hoax and later charge Omar Majed.
- Monday 4 May – Majed appears before magistrates; venue says future shows will go ahead.
Impact and Significance
The incident highlights the need for rapid security responses at large venues and temporarily disrupted a tour intended to raise funds for cancer charities, potentially affecting donation timelines.
Official Statements
West Midlands Police said searches found no suspicious material, thanked the public for cooperation and reaffirmed safety as a priority. Utilita Arena said evacuation was a precaution on police advice, confirmed all attendees were safely removed and would be contacted. NEC Group said upcoming shows will continue with existing security measures.
Criticism & Audience Reaction
Attendees reported limited communication. Audience member Steve Aspinall said he initially thought the disruption was part of the show; Miranda Richardson called the removal “very swift” with no explanation, suggesting a perceived lack of transparency.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Following searches, nothing suspicious was found.” — West Midlands Police
- “We are grateful to everyone for their co-operation and understanding,” — West Midlands Police
- “Utilita Arena Birmingham has been evacuated as a precaution on the advice of West Midlands Police after a potential suspicious bag was found nearby.” — Utilita Arena
- “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.” — Steve Aspinall, audience member
Next Steps
Omar Majed will appear before Birmingham magistrates on 4 May 2026 to face the false communications charge. The NEC Group has confirmed that the remaining dates of Kay’s tour will proceed, with security protocols reviewed after the hoax.
