A resident of Block 510 West Coast Drive detected a foul smell emanating from a neighboring unit but hesitated to report it, fearing that discussing death during Chinese New Year would bring bad luck.
However, as the stench grew increasingly unbearable, residents alerted the police on the third day of the holiday period. Authorities later discovered the body of a 53-year-old man inside the unit.
“It’s Chinese New Year, so I felt uncomfortable mentioning such things,” a female neighbor told Shin Min Daily News. “I was also worried that if I was wrong about my suspicions, it might cause a misunderstanding with my neighbor.”
She noted that the deceased had lived alone since his father passed away three years ago. In previous years, he would be seen cleaning the altar outside his flat before the New Year, but this year, he was notably absent.
“I thought it was strange, but I assumed he might be overseas or staying with his sister,” she added.
Another neighbor, who had been away visiting relatives during the first two days of the holiday, only noticed the stench upon returning home.
Authorities have yet to release details regarding the cause of death.
Photo: Shin Min Daily News
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