Convenience store operator 7-Eleven has come to the aid of the family and colleagues of slain store owner Cheng Ka-pui.
The company changed the logo on its Facebook page to black and grey after news broke of Cheng’s death of injuries sustained in a knife attack when he confronted someone shoplifting a packet of crisps.
“7-Eleven express profound condolences on the passing away of franchisee Cheng Ka-pui, and offers deepest sympathy to his family,” the company said on Facebook.
CCTV footage shows Cheng was stabbed repeatedly with a 20cm long knife after an argument.
Police say that at about 6.45pm on March 8, they received a report some goods of a shop on Pitt St in Yau Ma Tei were stolen. Cheng was unconscious when they arrived and he died six days later at Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
7-Eleven said it would set up a relief fund to help Cheng’s family deal with the tragedy and assist with funeral arrangements. It has provided counselling assistance to staff in need.
“7-Eleven strongly condemns the cruel behaviour of the assailant – we feel extremely angered,” the post read.
The company has also announced training procedures for staff in how to handle emergencies and putting safety first.
Police have arrested a 32-year-old Vietnamese man, who holds Canadian citizenship, who has already appeared in court. On Monday he was charged with murder.
Hong Kong police are investigating another incident on Monday in which a 71-year-old man was found dead, murdered in a shop on Wan Tau St in Tai Po.
Police arrived at the scene to find the man lying unconsciously with neck injuries inside the shop, which had been ransacked.