The government has granted HK$6 million in financial assistance to the family of Vinson So Yuet-leung, a 60-year-old man who sacrificed his life to save a 15-year-old girl who had attempted suicide by jumping into the sea in April.
The financial assistance, provided under the financial assistance scheme for family members of those who sacrifice their lives to save others, is meant to offer support to So's family members.
He added: "Despite the fact that Mr So was not acquainted with the girl, it did not stop him from trying his best to save her life. His act demonstrated the most admirable courage and selflessness, which commands our greatest respect.
The grant represents the government's recognition of the late Mr So's exceptional courage. We sincerely hope the financial assistance can provide some relief to his family members."The incident occurred on April 11 at around 7pm, when So was fishing at Aberdeen Harbour near South Horizons in Ap Lei Chau.
He witnessed the 15-year-old girl jump into the sea and immediately went in to try to save her.Tragically, both So and the girl drowned.
So was later found floating about 100 meters from the shore and certified dead after being rushed to Queen Mary Hospital.The girl was rushed to the same hospital and admitted to the intensive care unit but died two days later. No suicide note found at the scene.
The Financial Assistance Scheme was established in January 2002 to provide financial support to the families of those who lose their lives attempting to save or protect others.The amount of assistance is calculated based on the deceased's age, normal retirement age, and prevailing median monthly employment earnings, with a minimum of HK$6 million and a maximum of HK$12 million per approved application.
wallis.wang@singtaonewscorp.com
