Coach driver who crashed into railings, injuring 17, 'was in debt and had health issues'

A 63-year-old cross-boundary coach driver has been charged after allegedly crashing his vehicle into railings on the Shenzhen Bay Bridge, injuring 17 passengers, according to sources familiar with the case.

The driver, surnamed Lee, was operating a cross-boundary coach from the Shenzhen Bay Port back to Kwun Tong around 1pm on Sunday when the incident occurred. The coach was carrying 25 passengers and travelling within the speed limit, it is understood.

Sources indicated the driver had a history of health problems and family debt. He is suspected of deliberately driving into the bridge barriers. The crash resulted in minor injuries to eight men and nine women aged 25 to 64, who were sent to hospital.

Police initially arrested Lee on suspicion of dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm. He has now been formally charged and will appear at West Kowloon Magistrates' Courts on Wednesday.