Trial Begins for Family of Socialite Abby Choi in Hong Kong Murder Case

A murder trial commenced in Hong Kong on Monday for the former husband and in-laws of socialite Abby Choi, more than three years after the discovery of dismembered body parts shocked the city known for its low crime rates.

Alex Kwong, Choi's ex-husband, along with his father Kwong Kau and brother Anthony Kwong, are accused of killing Choi in February 2023. They also face charges related to the prevention of a lawful burial. If convicted of murder, they face a potential life sentence.

Choi, 28, was a prominent figure who frequently shared her life, including attending fashion events like Paris Fashion Week, on Instagram. Her killing garnered significant public attention, with dozens of people reportedly waiting outside the courtroom for the proceedings.

During the initial court appearance, the three defendants, who were masked, appeared calm. Kwong Kau wore a white T-shirt, while his sons were dressed in suits.

Police located some of Choi's body parts within a residence in Tai Po, a suburban district of Hong Kong. Investigators later conducted searches at a landfill as part of the evidence-gathering process.

Choi had two children with Alex Kwong. She had since remarried and had two younger children with her second husband.

The prosecution is expected to present its case at a later date. The jury trial is projected to last 45 days.