Elderly patient dies in apparent fall at Princess Margaret Hospital

A 74-year-old man being treated for high blood pressure at Princess Margaret Hospital died after an apparent fall from height on Sunday evening, prompting an internal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the sentinel event.

The patient, admitted on August 21 due to acute hypertension, showed no signs of suicidal risk during initial assessments and was described as emotionally stable throughout his stay.

Hospital staff last saw the patient around 5pm on August 24 while checking his blood pressure. 

He appeared calm and showed no unusual behavior.

Approximately 15 minutes later, ward personnel discovered he was missing—though his mobile phone and other personal items remained in the room.

The hospital immediately notified the family, initiated a search, and contacted police. 

Later that evening, authorities confirmed the man had died after a fall at an undisclosed location.

In a statement, Princess Margaret Hospital expressed deep sadness over the incident and extended condolences to the family, pledging full support and assistance. 

The case has been classified as a sentinel event—a serious, unexpected incident involving death or severe harm—and reported to the Hospital Authority.

A root cause analysis committee will be formed to investigate the event, and the hospital will cooperate fully with police.