An 83-year-old man was hit by a light rail vehicle and killed at Lam Tei, Tuen Mun on Monday morning, in an accident in which his wife was seriously injured. A light rail driver has been arrested in connection with the incident.
The deceased, Ma, was living with his wife, Mok, in a village house in Tsing Chuen Wai. The couple had four daughters and three sons. Their eldest son told Apple Daily that the couple had a very good relationship, and that Ma would often take his wife around on his bicycle, as she has had difficulties with mobility in recent years. Their habit was to go to Lam Tei together every morning for a yumcha breakfast.
At 6:39am on Monday, a route 751 light rail vehicle was travelling along Castle Peak Road towards Tuen Mun when it hit the couple, who were traversing the tracks at the pedestrian crossing at Lam Tei. According to an eyewitness, Ma had been pushing the bike carrying his wife across the road when the accident happened.
Ma was thrown under the vehicle and his wife fell onto the ground, and the bicycle was sent flying. Mok suffered fractures to her limbs and was taken to the Tuen Mun Hospital. The Fire Services Department rescued Ma, but he was pronounced dead soon afterwards.
The police arrested a 33-year-old light rail driver named Chu on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has been released on bail. He has also been suspended from driving pending further investigation.
A MTRC spokesperson offered their condolences and said they would provide assistance to the family. Four light rail routes were affected for about an hour by the accident and shuttle buses were arranged for passengers.
