Man, 70, who died after fight in Geylang had lived there for decades, was in film about the area

The 70-year-old man who died following a fight in Lorong 16 Geylang on the morning of Mar. 9, 2026, was previously an extra in a local film, Shin Min Daily News reported.

He was identified as Zhou Linghui by someone who knew him for many years, Shin Min reported, adding that upon visiting the scene on the evening of Mar. 9, many who knew Zhou had gathered.

Before his death, Zhou played the role of "Wu Zhi" (transliterated) in the film "Geylang", according to Shin Min.

Lived in Geylang for decades

Speaking to Shin Min, the film's director, Boi Kwong, expressed his shock over Zhou's passing, adding that Zhou had provided a "great deal of assistance" during the filming of the movie.

Kwong added: "[Zhou] was very talkative, and I learned about Geylang from him.

"He was a great help during filming and would also help talk to other people."

Kwong said one of the reasons he cast him was because he had lived in Geylang for decades.

In addition, Zhou had been in many productions as an extra, Kwong said, adding that he kept in touch with Zhou after the filming of "Geylang" ended and last met him nine months ago.

The film's actor Mark Lee said he previously went with Kwong to Geylang to understand the situation there, adding that he met Zhou once and subsequently did not keep in touch with him.

Day before incident

Shin Min reported that the day before the incident, the suspect had allegedly caused a disturbance at a temple.

Due to a previous altercation with Zhou, he had supposedly gestured for the suspect to leave, Shin Min reported, adding that the suspect still appeared on the day of the incident.

According to witnesses, Zhou had previously visited the temple every morning to offer incense.

Police alerted to fight in Geylang

Police said they were alerted to a fight along Lorong 16 Geylang at about 8:15am on Mar. 9.

When officers arrived at the scene, they found a 70-year-old man injured.

He was taken to the hospital unconscious but later died from his injuries.

A 48-year-old man was arrested at the scene and was also taken to the hospital.

Penalties

In a news release on Mar. 9, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) said the suspect, a 48-year-old man, was charged in court on Mar. 10 with murder under Section 302(1) of the Penal Code.

If convicted, the offence carries the death penalty.

Top photos via Shin Min Daily News, Facebook