Lorry catches fire and explodes on North Lantau Highway after crash

A 16-tonne lorry carrying electronic components caught fire and exploded after crashing on the North Lantau Highway near Tung Chung in the early hours of August 15. The incident occurred around 3:15 a.m. while an Amber Rainstorm Warning Signal was in effect.

The vehicle reportedly lost control near the Caribbean Coast area, striking an eight-meter roadside barrier before sliding approximately 30 meters. The truck's cab was severely damaged by the fire, which was accompanied by loud explosions. While firefighters successfully extinguished the blaze and confirmed no one was trapped inside the truck, the driver, identified as a 32-year-old surnamed Lee, fled the scene immediately after the crash.

Debris from the collision reportedly struck a following taxi, resulting in minor injuries to the taxi driver and a passenger. The driver was taken to North Lantau Hospital for treatment. The Transport Department temporarily closed airport-bound lanes of the highway to facilitate emergency operations and cleanup. Police are currently investigating the circumstances of the crash and are searching for the driver, who reportedly contacted his employer and colleagues to report the accident before disappearing.