Woman Sat For Seven Hours In McDonald’s Before Anyone Noticed She Was Dead

#1 McRefugees

A homeless woman lay dead at a Hong Kong McDonald's restaurant for hours surrounded by diners who failed to notice her, sparking concern over the city's "McRefugees". A term given to the homeless who shelter in 24 hour restaurants.

#2 Hong Kong Has Growing Number Of Homeless Taking Shelter In McDonald's 24 Hour Restaurants

The woman, who police say was between 50 and 60, was found dead on Saturday morning, having not moved for seven hours before fellow diners noticed something was wrong, according to Apple Daily, citing CCTV footage.

#3 Dead At The Scene

According to The Daily Mail, 'Officers arrived upon a report from a female customer (that a person was found to have fainted),' police said in a statement.

'The subject was certified dead at the scene.'

A customer had finally called the police after noticing the deceased not moving for some time.

#4 Customers Dined On Big Macs Around Her Dead Body

The dead woman, who had gone unnoticed by staff and customers, was found slumped over a table at 8.30am on Saturday 24 hours after she entered the outlet at Ping Shek Estate in Kowloon Bay. It is believed she was a street sleeper who regularly spent nights in McDonald's.

#5 China's Homeless Problem Is The Biggest in the World

There are concerns over the plight of the homeless population in the affluent southern Chinese financial hub, although the number of homeless is relatively low, estimated at more than 1,000 by local NGOs.

Many are forced to live on the street as they cannot afford to rent even the tiniest home as housing prices are sky high.

In sweltering temperatures and high humidity, some find shelter in air-conditioned restaurants that are open around the clock.

"McDonald's Hong Kong would like to express our grief over the unfortunate incident at our Ping Shek Estate restaurant," Wendy Lam, senior director of McDonald's Hong Kong, said.

"We welcome everyone to visit our restaurants any time. In order to provide a pleasant dining environment, we would not disturb our customers, but our service will be offered promptly upon request," she added.

However, the staff at the restaurant claims the women was moving and came to the counter several times, though security cameras show her at her table for more than 7 hours.

#6 The Incident Is Bringing Awareness To The Issue Throughout The World

The McDonald's restaurant in the working class district of Ping Shek where the woman was found dead. The media and social platforms have all been buzzing about the tragedy, and some hope it will spark awareness of this growing issue.

#7 The Cause Of Death Is Not Determined At This Time

This tragic incident brings attention to the crisis of homelessness, an issue that plagues not only Hong Kong, but the entire world.