Police are investigating a murder, arson and attempted suicide case in Central today (July 24) in which a woman died.

     At around 1pm today, Police received multiple reports of a suspected fire and dense smoke emitting from a unit on 10 Kotewall Road, Central. Police officers and firemen sped to the scene. After firemen forcibly opened the door and extinguished the fire, a 57-year-old woman was found in the living room and a 66-year-old man in the bathroom. Both were rushed to Queen Mary Hospital in unconscious state and the woman was later certified dead at 1.41pm.

     Initial investigation revealed that the man is suspected of setting the unit on fire in a suicide attempt, which led to the death of his wife who was in the same unit.

     A suicide note and suspected accelerant, which are believed to be related to the case, were seized at scene.

     Post-mortem examinations will be conducted later to ascertain the cause of death.

     Active investigation by the Crime Headquarters, Central District is underway.  

     Additionally, two firemen felt unwell and were sent to Queen Mary Hospital in conscious state for medical treatment. Around 30 residents were evacuated to places of safety in the incident.

Ends/Wednesday, July 24, 2024
Issued at HKT 20:44

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