The man who died after his head became wedged under the electronic footrest of a cinema seat has has been named as Ateef Rafiq, 24.

In a statement from operator Vue International, the cinema said Rafiq died on 16 March, a week after the incident.

An investigation into the accident at the Vue cinema in Birmingham’s Star City leisure complex on 9 March is continuing. Sources quoted in the Birmingham Mail described how the “freak” accident happened after Rafiq bent down to retrieve a phone, dropped between Gold Class seats, at the end of a movie. Rafiq, who was with his wife, was only freed after the footrest was broken by those trying to help.

West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed it was called to reports of a patient in cardiac arrest. Crews managed to restart Rafiq’s heart and he was taken to the city’s Heartlands Hospital.

In a statement, Vue International said: “Following an incident which took place on Friday 9 March at our Birmingham cinema, we can confirm that a customer was taken to hospital that evening. We are saddened to learn that he passed away on Friday 16 March.”



“A full investigation into the nature of the incident is ongoing. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family who have our full support and assistance.”



Birmingham City Council has begun a health and safety investigation.