HK inquest faults Philippines in hostage deaths

HONG KONG — A Hong Kong inquest has concluded that Philippine officials contributed to or caused the deaths of eight local tourists gunned down by a disgruntled former police officer who held their tour bus hostage in Manila in August.

A five-member jury at Hong Kong's coroner's court faulted Philippine authorities for not meeting the hostage-taker's demands quickly enough and lying to him. The jury said the bungled rescue operation also delayed medical treatment for two victims who might have been saved.

The panel also found that Philippine officials aggravated negotiations by failing to block media coverage of the gunman's brother's arrest, which outraged him.

Wednesday's findings do not imply criminal or civil responsibility. (report from Associated Press)