A bus driver was sentenced to four years in jail Wednesday for a fatal crash in Fanling that left six dead in 2019.
Man Chi-kwong, 57, pleaded guilty earlier this month to dangerous driving causing death and grievous body harm, admitting that he “froze” while driving that afternoon. He apologized to the victims and their families over the tragedy.
Around 4:15 on Dec. 18, 2019, the bus—traveling on route 978 from Wan Chai to Fanling—rammed into a roadside barrier before hitting a tree.
The impact of the crash ripped the top of the bus open, sending bus seats and at least two passengers flying out the window.
Photos of the aftermath showed bus debris and passengers’ belongings lying by the side of the road.
Thirty-nine people were injured in the tragedy, including eight who were sent to hospital in serious condition. Some suffered rib and spine fractures.
Relatives of the deceased who attended the afternoon court session said they felt the sentence of four years is too short, Apple Daily reported. One said he still feels traumatized when driving by the accident spot.
According to local media, Man had been a driver for the Kowloon Motor Bus company for 18 years. He has since been barred from driving until 2026.
Surveillance video from the bus showed Man’s hand coming off the steering wheel and touching his face while driving, leading to suspicions that he may have trying to keep himself from dozing off.
He is not believed to have been speeding at the time of the crash.
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