Hong Kong hiker dies after being swept into sea while ‘taking photos’ near Shek O
- Victim was hiking near Shek O and said to be taking photos when he accidentally fell into the sea
- Authorities warn people to keep away from restricted areas, after spike in fatal hiking accidents of late
A Hong Kong hiker died on Friday after falling into the sea near Shek O, and was believed to have been taking photos when the accident happened, according to police.
The force received multiple reports at around 3.30pm about a man who had fallen into the sea at Cape D’Aguilar Marine Reserve, on Hong Kong Island’s southeastern tip.
The 32-year-old man was rescued more than 10 metres away from where he fell. He was unconscious and sent to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital in Chai Wan for treatment but was later pronounced dead.
The cause of death will be determined after an autopsy.
Police’s preliminary investigation showed the man was taking photos when he was accidentally swept into the water by a large wave.
Hong Kong has seen a spike in fatal hiking accidents as residents take to the outdoors to get some exercise and fresh air during the coronavirus pandemic. Large crowds have been hitting the city’s popular trails, such as those in Sai Kung, Lantau, Tung Chung and the Lion Rock hike between Kowloon Tong and Sha Tin.
