Hong Kong – A 52-year-old domestic helper is in police custody in Hong Kong after the 93-year-old woman she cared for died on Sunday morning, October 11. The victim, a widowed cancer survivor surnamed Kwan, was found unresponsive inside her Kai Tak flat. Police arrested the helper early Monday on suspicion of murder.
According to a news report, investigators believe the elderly woman suffered repeated assaults before her death. Security footage reportedly points to minor attacks almost every day over roughly two weeks.
A Call for Help at 8:20 a.m.
The helper, hired to provide round-the-clock care, approached building security staff at around 8:20 a.m. She told them her employer was unresponsive and needed an ambulance.
Paramedics treated Kwan at her home in Long Yiu House, Tak Long Estate, before rushing her to the hospital. She was pronounced dead at 9:12 a.m.
Officers returned to the 150-square-foot public housing flat and arrested the helper there at around 3:50 a.m. on Monday.
What the Camera Captured
Police said security camera footage from that Sunday morning allegedly showed the following:
- Multiple assaults between 8:03 a.m. and 8:10 a.m.
- About 20 blows with her hands to Kwan’s head, face, and neck
- The helper stepping on Kwan’s abdomen while moving her
- Kwan lying motionless on her bed by about 8:10 a.m.
After that, the helper reportedly tried to revive her by giving her water and patting her lightly. Only then did she go for outside help.
A Frail Patient With No Close Family
Kwan had no children. Her husband died of an illness more than 30 years ago.
She lived with several chronic conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. She was diagnosed with colorectal cancer 17 years ago and had a stroke more than two years ago. She needed long-term medication and regular medical checkups. The Social Welfare Department also visited her regularly.
Her relatives arranged the helper’s hiring in late 2022, and the worker started in January 2023.
Friction and Overwork Cited
Terry Wan King-hang, acting deputy Sau Mau Ping district commander, said early findings suggest tension between the two built up over time. Police believe the strain may be linked to overwork.
What Happens Next
A forensic pathologist found bruises on Kwan’s chest, lower abdomen, right abdomen, and right jaw, along with cuts on the left side of her neck. No obvious fatal injuries were identified.
An autopsy and further forensic tests will determine the exact cause of death. The Sau Mau Ping district crime squad is continuing its investigation.