Vice-principal of King George V school, Tim Ford, is found hanged

A vice-principal of King George V School died on Sunday in an apparent suicide at his home in Fo Tan.

Tim Ford, 46, was found hanging in the bathroom by his wife. Police are investigating if work-related stress was involved.

"It is my sad duty to inform the school community of the fact that Tim Ford passed away yesterday. His loss is sudden and devastating for all the KGV," principal Ed Wickins said.

"Students and staff have been informed this morning, and there is a sense of shock at what has happened. We are making arrangements to support students in their school life during this difficult time, and we will organise an appropriate celebration of Tim's life."

Wickins' comments appeared in a statement posted on the school's website yesterday.

Ford's 44-year-old wife, who discovered his death, is a teacher at the school.

The English Schools Foundation (ESF) said Tim Ford was a "highly respected and much loved member" of the KGV and ESF community.

"Our thoughts are with Tim's wife and children at this sad time. We are providing support to his family and to the staff and students of KGV and Sha Tin College," an ESF spokeswoman said.

He had worked for several years at Sha Tin College, as head of faculty for both technology, and information and communications technology.

On Sunday, Ford returned to his flat in the Royal Ascot apartments in Lok Shun Road, Fo Tan, at about 5pm, and entered the bathroom at around 6pm. There was a loud noise from the bathroom and his wife knocked on the door, but got no answer.

She used a spare key to unlock the door and found Ford hanging inside. She called police shortly before 7pm. Ford was taken to Prince of Wales Hospital, where he was declared dead shortly after 7.30pm.

No suicide note was found at the scene. Police said a preliminary investigation found nothing suspicious and an autopsy would be carried out.

An initial investigation found Ford had suffered from work-related stress and depression, and had consulted a doctor about it, according to a police source.