Chris Brown Arrested in Manchester Over 2023 Nightclub Assault Allegations

KEY POINTS

• Chris Brown, 36, was arrested in Manchester, UK, on May 15, 2025, over a 2023 nightclub assault case.
• Producer Abraham Diaw alleges Brown attacked him with a bottle at Tape nightclub in London.
• Brown is being held on suspicion of grievous bodily harm; a $16 million lawsuit is pending.
• The incident threatens to impact the artist’s upcoming Breezy Bowl XX European tour dates.

American R&B artist Chris Brown was arrested in the early hours of May 15, 2025, in Manchester, England, following an investigation into a violent assault that reportedly occurred at a London nightclub in February 2023. The 36-year-old singer is now being held on suspicion of grievous bodily harm.

According to the Metropolitan Police, Brown was detained at The Lowry Hotel in Salford at approximately 2:00 a.m., just hours after arriving in the UK by private jet. The arrest is linked to allegations made by music producer Abraham Diaw, who claims Brown struck him multiple times with a bottle of Don Julio 1942 tequila inside Tape nightclub in Hanover Square on February 19, 2023.

Details of the Alleged Assault

Diaw alleges that Brown hit him over the head “two or three times,” causing him to collapse. He further claims that Brown then stomped on him while unconscious, resulting in serious head injuries, torn ligaments, and long-term physical damage.

The music producer has since filed a $16 million (£12 million) civil lawsuit in London, seeking compensation for the injuries, emotional trauma, and lost income resulting from the alleged attack.

Impact on Tour Plans

Brown is scheduled to perform at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena on June 15 and 16 as part of the European leg of his Breezy Bowl XX Tour. As of now, it remains unclear whether the arrest will impact his upcoming shows. Neither Brown’s management team nor tour organizers have released official statements.

Ongoing Legal Troubles

This incident adds to a series of legal troubles that have plagued Brown throughout his career. He infamously pleaded guilty in 2009 to felony assault against his then-girlfriend Rihanna. Despite maintaining a high-profile music career, the singer has faced multiple allegations of assault, battery, and threatening behavior in the years since.

Authorities have not indicated whether Brown will face additional charges or remain in custody during the investigation. Legal experts suggest that if convicted, Brown could face severe penalties under UK law.

Reporting based on sources from The Independent and MSN.