Police reclassified a December 27 arson case as murder early this morning following the death of a 71-year-old man last night. The search for the man believed to have started the fire in a Cheung Sha Wan leather factory continues.

A fire was started at about 8 pm on December 27 on the seventh floor of an industrial building at 781 Lai Chi Kok Road.

Eleven men including the deceased, aged 46 to 71, sustained burns and were rushed to the Princess Margaret Hospital and Caritas Medical Centre for treatment. Of them, nine are still in hospital while one has been discharged.

Hunt continues for man who started fire

Police are looking for a fat man aged between 30 and 40, about 1.65 metres tall. He was wearing a dark-coloured sweater and trousers during the incident and is suspected to have leg injuries.

It was reported that a man entered the unit, poured some inflammable liquid on the ground, and ignited it before fleeing.

Doctors who may have treated him are urged to contact Police on 2761 2345.

Taxi drivers who may have picked him up along Lai Chi Kok Road, Cheung Fat Street or Hing Wah Street, or anyone who witnessed the case or has information to offer are also urged to contact Police.