Abdullah Hayayei, a 36-year-old Paralympian from the United Arab Emirates, tragically lost his life on July 11, 2017, during a training session at Newham Leisure Centre in London. He was preparing for the World Para Athletics Championships when a metal throwing cage collapsed, fatally striking him.
In the wake of this incident, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has brought charges against UK Athletics and Keith Davies, the former head of sport for the 2017 World Para Athletics Championships. UK Athletics faces charges of corporate manslaughter and violations of the Health and Safety at Work Act. Keith Davies, 77, has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter and a health and safety offense. Both parties are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on January 31.
Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS Special Crime Division, emphasized the importance of a fair trial, stating: “The Crown Prosecution Service reminds everyone that criminal proceedings are active and both UK Athletics Ltd and Davies have the right to a fair trial.” He also urged against any reporting or commentary that could prejudice the proceedings.
Hayayei had previously competed in the 2016 Rio Paralympics, finishing sixth in the javelin and seventh in the shot put. His untimely death has prompted a thorough investigation into the safety protocols and responsibilities of the organisations and individuals involved in the event’s preparation.
The upcoming court proceedings aim to address the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident and determine accountability for any lapses in safety measures that may have contributed to Hayayei’s death.
