Teenager arrested after ‘bomb hoax’ halts Peter Kay gig in Birmingham

LocalEntertainment
2 May 2026 • 5:00 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Teenager arrested after ‘bomb hoax’ halts Peter Kay gig in Birmingham

  • Comedian Peter Kay's performance at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham was halted, and the audience evacuated, after a "potential suspicious bag" was discovered.
  • West Midlands Police confirmed that no items of a suspicious nature were found following searches of the arena.
  • A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a bomb hoax offence and remains in police custody.
  • Witnesses described Kay being escorted off stage about 45 minutes into his show, with the audience remaining calm during the evacuation.
  • The National Exhibition Centre (NEC) stated the evacuation was a precautionary measure, ensuring the safety of attendees, and confirmed the venue is now secure.

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