SINGAPORE – Tragedy struck in the heart of Hougang on December 10 as 34-year-old Dao Thi Hong, a dedicated mother of three and a Vietnamese national, became the victim of a horrific knife attack. Her friend Sally, who had known Ms. Hong for several years, shared with The Straits Times that the victim had relocated from Hanoi to Singapore approximately five years ago in search of better opportunities for her family.

Employed at the Quan Long Nippon Paint hardware shop located at Block 210 Hougang Street 21, Ms. Hong's life was cut short when she was brutally attacked by a 42-year-old male colleague in an incident that occurred around 11 AM. Eyewitnesses reported hearing screams and witnessed the suspect wielding a knife in a fit of violence. In a commendable act of bravery, a 26-year-old male coworker intervened but was also injured in the chaos.

In a poignant display of grief, Sally, alongside other friends and well-wishers, paid their respects to Ms. Hong at a poignant makeshift altar established behind the now-closed shop. Emphasizing her sorrow, Sally shared, “I wanted to stay here and accompany her for a while. It’s better for her.”

The emotional impact of this loss was further amplified when Ms. Hong's sister, who traveled from Vietnam, arrived at the altar amidst heavy rain. Overcome with grief, she needed the support of friends as she prayed for her beloved sister, deeply mourning the loss of a nurturing mother and cherished sibling.

Reports have revealed that Ms. Hong’s husband had also planned to travel to Singapore but was prevented from doing so due to passport issues, highlighting the tragedy's profound impact on her family back home.

Community members shared reflections on Ms. Hong's character, calling her a "good person" who worked tirelessly to provide for not only her three young children but also her parents back in Vietnam. Her flatmate, Nguyen Trong Vinh, recounted how Ms. Hong consistently connected via video calls with her children, cherishing every moment despite their physical distance. Friends and fellow Vietnamese nationals came together to honor her memory, setting up a memorial and packing her belongings, which included gifts and clothes she had selected for her children.

The incident raised serious concerns about violence in workplaces and sparked debates regarding safety measures for employees. Reports also indicated that the suspect sustained injuries during the altercation, with both the suspect and Ms. Hong being transported to local hospitals. The man is expected to face murder charges on December 12, with the harrowing prospect of the death penalty looming over him if found guilty.

As the community grapples with this heartbreaking loss, many are left questioning what could have driven a man to commit such a senseless act of violence. Efforts to provide support to Ms. Hong's grieving family and raise awareness about domestic safety continue as her story unfolds.