Tragic Death of Paralympian Abdullah Hayayei Highlights Safety Negligence
A tragic incident at a training facility in Newham, London, resulted in the death of Abdullah Hayayei, a 36-year-old Paralympic shot putter from the United Arab Emirates. Hayayei was killed when a metal bar fell on him due to a collapsed training cage during a gust of wind while he was preparing for the World Para Athletics Championships in July 2017. During a sentencing hearing at the Old Bailey, it was revealed that UK Athletics, the event's organizer, is facing charges for corporate manslaughter. Additionally, Keith Davies, the former head of sport at UK Athletics, is being sentenced for breaching health and safety laws. Both parties pleaded guilty earlier this year. Prosecutor John Price KC informed the court that the equipment responsible for Hayayei's death lacked crucial components, contributing to its collapse. The heavy metal bar, weighing 25kg, struck Hayayei on the head, leading to his immediate death at the scene. A poignant victim impact statement was presented by Badriah Rashid Zayed Al-Yahyaei, Hayayei's widow, who expressed the profound shock and grief her family endured: "It was a huge shock to me... I could not comprehend it at first and refused to believe it." "What happened was a result of gross negligence that could have been avoided had safety rules been adhered to." The court also heard from an expert who confirmed that essential bolts were missing from the shot-putting cage, highlighting a troubling culture of neglect regarding safety protocols. Price emphasized that the incident was indeed "an accident waiting to happen." As the hearing continues, Judge Richard Marks KC is expected to announce sentencing decisions on Tuesday, amidst ongoing discussions about the accountability of UK Athletics and Keith Davies.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-06-01