East Rail services disrupted after man attempts to jump off footbridge in Fanling

Train services on the East Rail Line were disrupted during the morning rush hour on Tuesday, after a man attempted to jump off a footbridge onto the train tracks near Tong Hang Tung Chuen in Fanling.

It took first responders and police negotiators around six hours before the man was coaxed down from the footbridge between Tai Wo Station and Fanling Station.

Police had received reports of the attempted suicide at around 12am on Tuesday.

At 5am, firefighters and police officers who responded to the scene were unable to talk the man out of standing on the edge of the footbridge and return to safety.

The MTR at 5.27am announced that train services running between the two stations will be suspended, with shuttle bus services provided for commuters.

Hundreds of morning commuters formed long queues at the shuttle bus stops at Fanling Station, Tai Wo Station, and Tai Po Market Station after the announcement.

The man finally returned to safety at around 6am after police negotiators joined in speaking to him. He was escorted down the footbridge and brought to the hospital for treatment.

At 6.26, the MTR said normal train service was gradually resuming.

If you, or someone you know, are having suicidal thoughts, help is available. Dial +852 2896 0000 for The Samaritans or +852 2382 0000 for Suicide Prevention Services.