‘Hero’ security guard tragically passes away suddenly

For the Image: Hassan Iqbal (L) with Munir Qureshi

A 55-year-old security guard, described as a ‘hero’ has tragically died after suffering from a cardiac arrest.

Munir Qureshi worked at Accrington Arndale, a shopping centre in Accrington, England. He had been employed for 17 years and many of the shoppers could easily identify him as he was a familiar face.

Qureshi has left behind his wife, two daughters, a son and a granddaughter. He was known for his courage and preventing a man from committing suicide in 2016.

Qureshi, along with the current Centre Manager at Arndale Shopping Centre, Hassan Iqbal, who was in the security team when the incident took place, intervened when they saw a man climbing on top of the top deck of the car park and threatened to jump off. The pair assisted the man immediately while he stood at the edge of parapet of the third floor of the building and prevented any mishap from occurring.

For their effort, the men were awarded the divisional commander’s commendations. Divisional Commander for East Division, Chief Superintendent Matt Horne, said at the time: “It is one thing for a police officer to put themselves in harm’s way in the service of others, but quite another for a member of the public to step forward.”

“I am grateful for their help in this case.”

“I have no doubt that the brave and selfless actions of Munir Qureshi and Iqbal saved the life of a very vulnerable young man.”

Many people who knew Munir paid tributes to him after the news of his death was put out. A family statement was released by his daughter, which said, “He was hardworking, kind, polite, intelligent and pure hearted. He always passed everyone with a smile and had genuine love for everyone.”

“He knew many people and was well known and respected in the community.”

“If anybody could help, my dad would help. He was our best friend and the best dad anyone could ask for. We are eternally grateful for everything he did for us and hope to make him proud.”

Funeral prayers for Qureshi were held at the Raza Mosque in Accrington and the burial was done later at Pleasington Cemetery in Blackburn.