Two children dead after being found unconscious in Yau Ma Tei murder-suicide

An eight-year-old boy and his three-year-old sister were pronounced dead on Wednesday evening after being found unconscious inside a Yau Ma Tei apartment alongside their injured father, in a suspected murder-suicide attempt.

(Read more: Tutoring center's call leads to discovery of bloody scene in Yau Ma Tei apartment)

The tragedy unfolded at Kam Wah Building on Canton Road after the children’s mother reported being unable to contact her family.

When police forced entry into the unit at around 3pm, they discovered the two young children and a 40-year-old man unconscious.

All three were rushed to the hospital, where the boy and girl were later declared dead. The man, who sustained neck injuries, remains under medical care.

The case has been classified as a murder–suicide. Preliminary investigations found a knife and bloodstains at the scene. The two children showed no visible signs of injury and were found lying on a bed next to their wounded father.

The discovery came to light after the mother was notified that her son did not arrive at his tutoring class and her husband was not answering repeated phone calls. She subsequently alerted authorities, who forced entry into the family’s apartment.

A spokesperson for the Social Welfare Department expressed profound sadness over the incident and confirmed that social workers have contacted the family to provide support.

Those in need can contact integrated family service centers or the department’s hotline at 2343 2255. It is understood that the family was not previously under the care of social workers.

Police are continuing their investigation.

(Marco Lam)

EDITOR’S NOTE — This story includes discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know has suicidal thoughts, help is available. Dial 2896 0000 for The Samaritans or 2382 2007 for Suicide Prevention Services.

You can also call Suicide Prevention Services at 2382 0000 or CEASE Crisis Centre of Tung Wah Groups of Hospitals at 18281.

The government hotline 18111 can provide support for people with mental health needs and render immediate mental health support and referral services.