HONG KONG – Police are searching for two men who abandoned a severely damaged cargo van after it crashed and flipped early Monday on Aberdeen waterfront, scattering its contents across the roadway. The white seven-seater light goods vehicle veered off Hoi Pong Road shortly after 1 a.m. near the local fish market while heading toward Aberdeen town center, striking a roadside barrier then reportedly rolling before coming to rest nearly 50 meters away in a slow lane.
The intensity of the crash, which witnesses saw reported to authorities, left the vehicle unrecognizable. Investigators arriving on the scene found the mangled van empty. Initial inquiries suggested the two occupants fled on foot in the direction of Aberdeen immediately following the collision, according to police officials.
The site of the accident presented a chaotic tableau, with the aftermath suggesting a high-speed impact. The cargo, which included bulk packages of toilet paper and cases of beer, was strewn across the multi-lane thoroughfare. The front end of the van sustained catastrophic damage, with the bumper ripped clean off. Further inspection revealed the rear door was twisted and nearly detached, and the roof and side panels were crumpled and severely warped, indicating the vehicle had likely rolled multiple times before halting.
Investigators immediately taped off the area to conduct a detailed examination of the wreckage and the surrounding road surface, attempting to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the crash and the subsequent flight of the occupants.
Search Underway for Fleeing Driver
The incident highlights growing concerns among transport officials regarding accountability in motor vehicle accidents, particularly those involving commercial goods vehicles. Fleeing the scene of an accident in Hong Kong is a serious offense, punishable by fines and potential imprisonment, depending on the severity of the crash and whether any injuries occurred.
Police are utilizing traffic camera footage and local witness accounts to identify and locate the two men who absconded. Failure to report an accident, coupled with evidence of driving that resulted in significant property damage, could result in multiple charges once the suspects are apprehended. Authorities have appealed to the public for any information regarding the identity or whereabouts of the individuals involved.
The cleanup operation, which commenced after the initial forensic investigation concluded, caused minor disruption to early morning traffic flows along the busy waterfront route. Police confirmed the investigation is ongoing as they work to determine the cause of the loss of control and the reason the occupants chose to abandon the vehicle. Reckless driving or driving under the influence of substances are potential avenues of inquiry, given the extreme nature of the damage and the men’s immediate flight from the location.
Key Takeaways:
- Vehicle Involved: White seven-seater light goods van (cargo).
- Time & Location: Approx. 1 a.m. Monday, Hoi Pong Road near the Aberdeen Fish Market.
- Status: Police are actively pursuing two male suspects who abandoned the heavily damaged vehicle.
- Legal Implication: Fleeing the scene of a crash carries significant penalties under Hong Kong law.
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