Family of Mentally Ill Man Shot by Hong Kong Police Recalls Tragedy
Siu, a mother who has hardly slept in the past 14 days, is haunted by the face of her son and the memories of the tragic day that changed her family forever. The incident occurred at her rooftop apartment in North Point on September 15, 2024. Siu was preparing dinner for her youngest son, Lee, and his wife when she overheard a conversation between them that left her concerned. Lee, who had been battling mental illness for seven years, suddenly became agitated, prompting his mother to offer him a calming suggestion. However, the situation escalated quickly when Lee unexpectedly hit his mother and wife, leading to injuries and a call to emergency services.
As the family recounted the events leading up to the fatal shooting, it became clear that Lee’s mental health condition played a significant role in the tragic outcome. Siu emphasized that her son was not a violent person but was struggling with schizophrenia and panic disorder. Despite her pleas for understanding from the police officers who arrived at the scene, Lee was shot and pronounced dead shortly after.
The aftermath of Lee’s death has left his family grappling with grief and seeking justice. His widow, father, and elder brother have raised questions about the police’s use of force and the lack of alternative measures to handle the situation. They expressed regret over involving the police, hoping only to get Lee to the hospital for treatment. The family’s plea for compassion and improved protocols for dealing with individuals with mental illness has sparked a broader conversation about the need for better training and support for law enforcement in such situations.
Subheadings:
1. Mental Health Crisis and Police Response
2. Calls for Improved Mental Health Support
3. Seeking Justice and Healing
In the wake of Lee’s death, there has been a renewed focus on the challenges faced by individuals with mental illness in Hong Kong. The incident has highlighted the need for a more compassionate and holistic approach to handling mental health crises, particularly when law enforcement is involved. As the family continues to mourn the loss of their loved one, they are advocating for systemic changes to prevent similar tragedies in the future.