Fatal tower crane collapse at Kwai Chung public housing construction site kills operator

A 60-year-old tower crane operator died when the crane suddenly broke and fell down a slope at a public housing construction site in Kwai Chung on Thursday afternoon.

The incident occurred around 4pm at a site near Kwai Shing Circuit, opposite Kwai Chung Estate. 

The crane snapped, scattering debris across the area and down the hillside. 

A light goods vehicle passing on Tai Wo Hau Road was hit by falling rocks and fragments, but the driver escaped unharmed.

Residents reported hearing a loud crash followed by the crane toppling. 

Emergency services rushed to the scene to search for victims and pronounced the 60-year-old operator dead on site.

Due to falling objects, Tai Wo Hau Road in both directions between Texaco Road and Sheung Kok Street was fully closed, causing heavy traffic. 

Citybus route 930 (between Exhibition Centre Station and Tsuen Wan West Station) was diverted, skipping stops at Tai Wo Hau Estate, Kwai Fuk Court, and parts of Kwai Chung Estate. 

Passengers were advised to check the company's app or website for updates.