Death toll of Hong Kong ship collision rises to 38

The death toll in Monday night’s collision between a ferry and a chartered boat packed with revellers in Hong Kong has risen to 38. The boat sank after the collision off Lamma Island, three kilometers southwest of Hong Kong Island. The boat was transporting the passengers to Victoria Harbour to watch a fireworks display celebrating China’s National Day and Mid-Autumn festival. Wang Tao takes a look. At a press conference, Hong Kong SAR’s Chief Executive, Leung Chun-Ying, declared October 4th to the 7th as days of mourning, and has called for the HK SAR flag to be flown at half mast. The HK SAR Chief Executive says the incident will be investigated thoroughly and further support will be provided to the families of the victims. Leung Chun-Ying, Chief Executive, Hong Kong SAR said, "I have ordered the social welfare department, home affairs department and hospital authorities to start work immediately. They will offer every family and individual the help they need and directly contact families of the victims. The Marine Department has been investigating the cause of the incident. And the police have also been looking into possible criminal damage." Those injured have been receiving treatment at local hospitals and counselling is being provided to those involved in the accident. The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR, Leung Chun-ying, earlier visited survivors of the collision. Leung Chun-Ying, Chief Executive, Hong Kong SAR said, "I express my condolences to all of the injured people and their families. The most important thing now is to focus on our rescue operations. We’re doing everything we can to take care of those who have been rescued by the air service team and our boats." Seven people have been arrested for endangering passenger safety and an inquiry into the cause of Monday night’s collision is underway. The ferry involved in the collision, was damaged but made it safely to the pier.