Old Trafford football stadium, the home of Manchester United, was evacuated on the last afternoon of the season on May 15, because of what was later identified as a training device.
Shortly before the 3pm kick off, staff alerted police to a suspicious item in toilets. Explosive specialists called in carried out a controlled explosion. The stadium was partially then totally evacuated and the match against Bournemouth abandoned. What the authorities described as an incredibly realistic-looking explosive device turned out to be left accidentally by a private company after a training exercise involving explosive search dogs. Assistant Chief Constable John O’Hare from Greater Manchester Police said: “Whilst this item did not turn out to be a viable explosive, on appearance this device was as real as could be, and the decision to evacuate the stadium was the right thing to do, until we could be sure that people were not at risk.
“Everyone remained calm, followed instructions, and worked with officers and stewards to ensure that a safe evacuation was quickly completed. Those present today were a credit to the football family and their actions should be recognised.
“I would also like to thank all those involved in the operation today for such a professional response, which includes police officers, stewards, MUFC staff, media representatives and commentators and the Bomb Disposal Team.”
Executive vice chairman Ed Woodward from Manchester United FC thanked police and the impeccable response from fans of both teams.
Greater Manchester’s Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd called it a fiasco.
For a 53-page ASIS Foundation Research Council report on Sports Team Travel Security, visit the foundation’s website.
Pictured: The Old Trafford field of play under lighting after dark.
