***********************************

Police are investigating a traffic incident on Tuen Mun Road in Tsuen Wan this (July 10) morning in which 21 persons died and 20 others were injured.

At about 6.30 am, a double-decker bus travelling along the northbound Tuen Mun Road reportedly collided with a container truck heading for the same direction near Ting Kau.

After the impact, the bus crashed against the barrier and fell onto a slope while the truck managed to stop on the highway.

During the incident, 21 persons including the bus driver were confirmed dead while 10 male and 10 female passengers sustaining injuries were admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital, Yan Chai Hospital, Tuen Mun Hospital and Caritas Medical Centre respectively for treatment.

The truck driver, a 53-year-old man, was arrested for dangerous driving causing death and will be bailed out later.

Investigations by a special investigations team of Traffic New Territories South are proceeding.

Anyone who might have witnessed the incident or wish to make public enquiries is urged to contact the hotline 1878 999.

Police Report No. 4

Issued by PPRB

End/1815 hours, Thursday, July 10, 2003 (MM/KO)

NNNN