The eldest son of Education Undersecretary Choi Yuk-lin has died after falling from a Tsim Sha Tsui flat on Thursday morning.
Around 11:50am, 25-year-old Poon Hong-yan fell from The Sorrento on Austin Road and was found lying on the podium of the estate’s Block 3. He was taken to hospital by an ambulance, but was later pronounced dead.
The reasons for the incident are still unknown.
Choi’s press secretary told local media that Choi thanks the public for its concern and she wishes to be given space through the difficult time.
Choi had two sons. RTHK cited anonymous sources as saying that the flat was Choi’s family residence, and that the eldest son had a record of depression and did not leave a suicide note. The public broadcaster reported that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
Education Secretary Kevin Yeung said in a statement that he was saddened by the incident and expressed his deepest sympathy to the undersecretary and her family on behalf of the Education Bureau.
Yeung added that he will fully support Choi.
Choi was appointed education undersecretary in July despite controversy over her pro-Beijing political stance.
If you are experiencing negative feelings, please call: The Samaritans 2896 0000 (24-hour, multilingual), Suicide Prevention Centre 2382 0000 or the Social Welfare Department 2343 2255. The Hong Kong Society of Counseling and Psychology provides a WhatsApp hotline in English and Chinese: 6218 1084. See also: HKFP’s comprehensive guide to mental health services in Hong Kong
