HONG KONG – A Mercedes-Benz sedan veered onto a pedestrian walkway in Kowloon Bay, Hong Kong, on Monday, March 16, 2026, injuring nine people. Authorities have arrested a 75-year-old male driver on suspicion of dangerous driving, and an investigation is underway to determine the precise cause of the incident. Preliminary reports suggest the driver may have mistakenly pressed the accelerator instead of the brake even as attempting to craft a U-turn.
The accident occurred at approximately 12:41 PM local time on Lin Fung Street near Mei Lo Centre. According to police, the vehicle jumped the curb and struck eight pedestrians before the 75-year-old female passenger was ejected from the car. The female passenger sustained serious head injuries and was initially transported to United Hospital before being transferred to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where she is currently listed in stable but critical condition. The other eight injured individuals suffered minor injuries, including abrasions, bruises, and a neck injury requiring on-site treatment by paramedics.
Driver Mistakenly Pressed Accelerator, Police Say
Speaking at a press briefing, Chief Inspector Cai Siu-kei of the East Kowloon Traffic Investigation Unit stated that the driver intended to make a U-turn at the scene. During the maneuver, he allegedly confused the accelerator for the brake pedal, causing the vehicle to surge forward and collide with pedestrians. Yahoo News reported that the driver and passenger are married.
Police confirmed that the driver was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs and possessed a valid driver’s license. The female passenger was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident, contributing to the severity of her injuries. The vehicle sustained significant damage to its front end, and guardrails and a tree were likewise damaged in the collision.
Traffic Disruption and Ongoing Investigation
Lin Fung Street in both directions near Macro Road and Lam Kai Road has been closed to traffic following the incident, causing significant congestion in the area. The Transport Department advised motorists to seek alternative routes. Hong Kong 01 reported that the vehicle also had mainland China license plates.
The East Kowloon Traffic Investigation Unit is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any information to contact them at +852 3661 0277. Investigators are reviewing dashcam footage and interviewing witnesses to reconstruct the events leading up to the collision.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses at the scene described a chaotic scene following the impact. Star Island News quoted one bystander as saying they “avoided it just in time,” expressing shock at the suddenness of the incident. Another witness described hearing a loud crash and seeing people scattered on the sidewalk.
What Happens Next?
The investigation is expected to continue for several weeks, with police analyzing forensic evidence and interviewing all parties involved. The driver remains in police custody and is expected to face charges related to dangerous driving. Authorities have not yet released information regarding potential mechanical failures that may have contributed to the accident. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
This incident underscores the importance of driver vigilance and the potential consequences of distracted or inattentive driving. It also highlights the vulnerability of pedestrians in urban areas and the need for enhanced safety measures to protect those on foot.
If you witnessed the accident or have any information that could assist the investigation, please contact the East Kowloon Traffic Investigation Unit at +852 3661 0277.
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